#United States #Texas #American Camp Association #Camp Safety #The Safety Navigator

Improving Safety Standards at Camps: A New Initiative by ACA

In a landmark collaboration, the American Camp Association (ACA) has joined forces with The Safety Navigator to enhance safety practices across the camping industry. The partnership is poised to revolutionize how camps manage safety protocols, providing essential tools and resources to ensure the well-being of campers and staff alike. This initiative is particularly timely, as the need for strong safety measures has never been more critical in today’s unpredictable environment.

A Commitment to Safety

As the national accrediting body for camps in the United States, ACA has long been recognized as a trusted advocate for camp safety. This new partnership aims to further solidify that reputation by equipping camps with comprehensive safety systems and support. According to ACA's CEO, Henry DeHart, “Camp safety is more than a talking point today, because it's always been embedded in the foundation of everything we do.”

The collaboration will kick off in Texas before the upcoming camp season in 2026, with plans for a nationwide rollout in summer 2027. The focus will initially be on providing camps with practical, actionable resources based on ACA’s accreditation standards and globally accepted safety best practices.

What the Partnership Offers

With The Safety Navigator's extensive expertise in safety management, ACA will be able to offer member camps a host of valuable resources. These include:

• - Safety Toolkits: Developed to align with leading industry practices, ensuring that all camps have access to the necessary safety tools.
• - Training Materials: Comprehensive training resources will enhance staff knowledge and preparedness.
• - E-Learning Resources: Customized e-learning modules will help staff learn about safety protocols at their own pace.
• - One-on-One Support: Access to experienced safety professionals will allow camps to receive tailored guidance.

“This partnership reinforces ACA's role as the standard-bearer for camp safety while giving camps practical and effective resources to prepare for emergencies and natural disasters,” said DeHart.

A Focus on Preparing for Emergencies

In recent years, camps have faced shifting challenges due to climate change and natural disasters. The ACA's partnership with The Safety Navigator will directly support camps in preparing for these emergencies, ensuring they are equipped to handle a variety of scenarios effectively. As the Texas initiative unfolds, ACA aims to learn from this experience and apply those lessons on a national scale.

The Vision Ahead

The Safety Navigator cofounders, Charlee Johnson, Ted Jarrett, and Marley Palin, echo the sentiment that safety in camps not only preserves lives but also enhances the overall camping experience. “Camps bring joy, development, and a sense of belonging,” they said. “Partnering with ACA allows us to build our safety toolkit to meet the needs of camps.”

As we approach the new camping season, this collaboration highlights the shared commitment to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for children and families at camps. The transition into this partnership marks a significant step towards establishing a culture of safety and preparedness in the camping community, ensuring that safety is not just a priority but an integral part of the camping experience.

For more information on ACA’s safety initiatives and accreditation programs, you can visit their official website at www.ACAcamps.org.