WEAPONS AND VIOLENT BEHAVIOR

 

POLICY STATEMENT

 

Members or visitors possessing dangerous weapons are not permitted at the Boys & Girls Club. Dangerous weapons are firearms, explosives, knives, razors, karate sticks, metal knuckles, or any other objects that by the manner in which they are used or are intended to be used are capable of inflicting bodily harm. In cases that clearly involve a firearm, or which involve any other weapon used in a threatening manner towards others, the police shall be called. The individual(s) involved are subject to immediate disciplinary action that may include permanent expulsion from the Boys & Girls Club.

 

Members or visitors who are involved in violent behavior are subject to permanent expulsion from the Boys & Girls Club. Such behavior includes assault with intent to do bodily harm, extortion, terrorism, arson, or sexual assault. The proper authorities will be notified should these serious infractions occur at the Boys & Girls Club.

 

In cases of members involved in violent behavior towards others, Boys & Girls Club officials will notify the parents of the perpetrator(s) and the victim(s) immediately. In cases involving members possessing or using weapons, a Boys & Girls Club supervisor will notify the parent as well as the police department.

 

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

 

• All new staff and new members receive literature that explains the rules and policies of the Boys & Girls Club.

 

• Members are shown regularly how to manage anger and resolve conflicts by identifying the problem, then discussing possible solutions with others involved in the dispute.

 

• Positive relationships between Boys & Girls Club Staff and members promote honest communication. Members are encouraged to inform Boys & Girls Club Staff of potential problems that may occur.

 

• Boys & Girls Club Staff are trained to resolve difficult situations between members.

 

• Boys & Girls Club staff are trained to identify conflicts between individuals and/or groups and address them judiciously

 

• Boys & Girls Club staff are trained to identify and handle threatening behavior from members. They are made aware of members who have a history of disruptive behavior.