Have you ever set a blood circle? Sounds like a creepy cult thing, right? Probably, but it's also a catchy way to remember your knife and blade safety! Fall is finally here (whoop!), and with the cool, crisp weather comes more time for campfires and grilling with your favorite people. Safety is always a top priority at Boy Scouts of America and should never be taken lightly. That's why we're helping you learn how to set up your blood circle with this how-to article. 

A blood circle is a term used by Scouts to describe the area around a person while using a blade or knife. It is an essential practice for Scouts because it helps ensure safety while cooking and performing other outdoor activities involving blades. Scouts should follow the blood circle rule to prevent accidents and keep everyone safe. With all the outdoor cooking and grilling, it is way more fun to make an entire meal from start to finish outside (like the silent rule to bring all groceries inside on one trip, no matter what). Setting your Safety Circle is key no matter what kind of blade you are using.

Imagine that you are chopping vegetables outside with your family, and you aren't paying attention, and suddenly, your 3-year-old cousin runs up and slams into your leg (all the while giggling that "she got you!"). We all know how unpredictable little ones are—they could grab the knife or climb you like a jungle gym. Having your blood circle set up gives everyone, including yourself, a more set space to pay attention to so that accidents don't happen. Similarly, the same thing could happen while chopping wood for the fire. You need an extensive range of movement, and if your hands become sweaty, that handle can get slippery! It is your responsibility to establish your circle so that everyone stays safe.

The concept of a blood circle is simple yet effective. Carefully hold the blade of your cutting instrument (never the handle) and slowly turn in a circle with your arm extended. The length of the cutting instrument plus your extended arm creates your circle, and you must keep the area inside your circle clear. If the circle cannot be cleared, safely close or sheath the blade until you find a clear space or can remove it.

The blood circle rule is one of the many ways Scouts can stay safe while enjoying outdoor activities. It is a simple yet effective way to prevent accidents and ensure everyone has a fun and safe outdoor experience. By following the blood circle rule, Scouts can enjoy all the benefits of outdoor activities without putting themselves or others in danger. Now get to creating your blood circles, and happy fall camping! For pocketknives, hand axes, first aid kits, and more outdoor gear, visit ScoutShop.org—the official store of the BSA.