SUMMER CAMP Safety

As you prepare the kids for one of the year’s absolute highlights—spring and summer camps—teach them how to stay safe while having fun. Based on my own experiences as a parent of summer campers, as well as conversations with other parents, here are common safety concerns.

COVID

“The good news is that COVID cases are falling and immunity is rising,” says Dr. Jaime Friedman, pediatrician for Children’s Primary Care Medical Group in 4S Ranch. “For children with high-risk family members, getting those members vaccinated should increase confidence for parents who want to send their children to camp. If the majority of camp staff can get vaccinated before summer, that’s even better. Surrounding campers with a bubble of immunity will protect them and their loved ones.”

According to Dr. Friedman, it’s unlikely we will reach herd immunity by summer. “Don’t fear, though,” she says. “Last year many camps operated safely and successfully. I have no doubt this summer can be the same.” Here are things to think about and ask camp staff in advance:

1. Will camp staff be tested regularly?

2. Will campers be tested before attending camp?

3. Will camp staff enforce mask wearing for staff and campers?

4. Will there be lots of hand washing and sanitizing of surfaces at camp?

5. Will campers be put in small groups that are distanced from other groups to make quarantine easier, if needed?

The social, emotional and physical benefits of camp are greater than ever for kids (and parents!) this year. “My hope is that summer will be a great opportunity for them to get back to feeling like kids again,” says Dr. Friedman.

Water

Few things are as important as teaching kids to stay properly hydrated. It’s hot outside, they sweat a lot, but they’re having fun so they often forget to drink as much water as they need. You don’t want them to get dehydrated or heatstroke, so shop together for a water bottle they like and remind them to fill it throughout the day. Find out what camp counselors do to ensure that kids stay hydrated. Do they remind kids to drink water? Do they have regular water breaks during the day?

Sunscreen

Sun safety means teaching kids to apply sunscreen whenever they’re about to go outside and to reapply it throughout the day. Buy sunscreen well before camp starts and try it to ensure kids don’t have an adverse reaction.

Swimming and Water Sports

Camp swimming pools are a source of endless fun, but can be dangerous if kids don’t know basic water safety and how to swim. The same applies to water sports like boating and surfing. If your kids aren’t already proficient swimmers, sign them up for lessons before camp starts. Tell them to never engage in dangerous activities like holding someone else’s head under water. Ask camp staff:

1. Do kids take a swimming test at camp to determine skill level?

2. Is the pool (or beach) always supervised by lifeguards who are trained in CPR?

3. Is playtime organized by proficiency level so that beginners and advanced swimmers aren’t in the pool at the same time?

4. Are life jackets mandatory for water sport activities?

Hiking

If camp activities include hiking San Diego’s beautiful trails, make sure kids have proper footwear. A pair of hiking boots or shoes with good traction help feet stay steady on the ground. Remind them not to take unnecessary risks (like running where they should be walking), to stay on marked trails, and always follow the camp leader.

Medical Information

Provide camp staff with a detailed health history, including illnesses, injuries, operations, allergies and current medical problems (if any). Review the facilities and activities for anything that might trigger medical/ allergic reactions. Provide copies of medical and dental insurance cards, especially if kids are attending overnight camp. Make sure that camp has a well-staffed and well-equipped medical station, know their procedures for dispensing medication, and explain to kids who to alert if help is needed.

Field Trips

Some camps offer extra field trips, which are often great fun. Teach kids proper behavior while in a vehicle— how to be a responsible passenger. Ask camp staff how field trips are managed:

1. Are campers split into smaller groups?

2. What is the counselor-to-camper ratio?

3. Is there a buddy system?

4. What is the emergency protocol if a camper is lost?

Taking time to talk to kids, practice and prepare them for camp helps ensure successful and positive experiences, making memories that last a lifetime. v

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

16 • SanDiegofamily.com • April 2021