#United States #Texas #American Camp Association #Camp Safety #Texas Camps

American Camp Association Takes Action on Camp Safety in Texas

Following the heartbreaking floods in July that resulted in the loss of campers and counselors in Texas, the American Camp Association (ACA) is unwavering in its commitment to enhancing camp safety practices across the state. In a bold move, ACA has partnered with state leaders and camp professionals to implement vital changes aimed at preventing future tragedies.

During a recent session, ACA Board Chair Steve Baskin, who is also the owner emeritus of Camp Champions in Marble Falls, provided testimony before the Texas House of Representatives Committee on Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. Baskin's impassioned speech underscored the need for improved safety measures in camps statewide. Referring to a close relative lost in the floods, he emphasized the importance of creating a secure environment for children at camps, stating, “Like every camp director, my cousin Jane — who we tragically lost in the floods — understood that the lifelong benefits of camp are built on a foundation of health and safety.”

To bolster safety regulations, Baskin outlined a comprehensive set of best-practice recommendations aimed at guiding camps in the creation of robust safety frameworks. Notable among these are:

Emergency Action Plans (EAPs)

These plans must be explicitly site-specific and developed in collaboration with local authorities and first responders. They should comprehensively address potential natural disasters, including floods, as well as other emergencies such as lost campers, fires, transportation incidents, and aquatic safety.

Redundant Communication Systems

Camps must ensure that communication channels remain operational even during emergencies, particularly power outages or cellular disruptions. Implementing multiple communication methods can save lives during critical moments.

Interlocking Weather Monitoring Tools

In light of Texas’s unpredictable weather, camps need to utilize various weather monitoring systems. These systems should come with clear protocols for initiating emergency actions at the onset of severe weather events, ensuring timely responses to protect campers.

Comprehensive Staff Training

All camp staff must undergo rigorous training regarding emergency procedures for extreme weather and other potential crises. This training should be clearly communicated and made accessible, with protocols prominently displayed in strategic camp locations.

With over 1,100 camp operations in Texas employing upwards of 60,000 employees and generating an impressive economic impact exceeding $3 billion annually, the ACA's push for safety enhancements is critical. Each year, approximately 1.5 million campers engage in these programs, making the importance of safety regulations all the more pressing.

In Baskin's words, “After any disaster, it’s essential to reflect, learn, and adapt.” The camp community is deeply determined to support Texas in this crucial endeavor, to fortify camps for any future challenges. The ACA plans to continue its collaboration with Texas camps and lawmakers as new regulations take shape, drawing on decades of experience and the collective insights of accredited camps nationwide.

About the American Camp Association

The American Camp Association® (ACA) is a national governing body that represents over 20,000 year-round and summer camps in the United States, collectively serving around 26 million campers each year. The ACA is dedicated to promoting quality camp experiences for children, youth, and adults through advocacy, education, and professional development. Serving as the only independent national accrediting body, the ACA ensures that camps adhere to high standards of health, safety, and overall well-being for all campers and staff. For further information, visit ACAcamps.org.