Swimming and other water activities are a fun part of many camp programs for children. It's important to choose a camp that takes steps to keep kids safe in and around
pools, lakes and other bodies of water.
If you're considering a camp for your child, here are some questions to ask:
Does the camp include water safety instruction?
Swim lessons and water safety instruction are important layers of protection against drowning for all children. If possible, start your child in
swim lessons before camp begins. In addition, you may want to select a camp that offers high quality swim lessons as part of the water experiences with certified aquatics professionals.
What are the specific water activities at camp, and are they onsite?
Will campers be swimming, for example? What about other activities like paddleboarding and boating? It's also important to ask if the pool or body of water is near the campsite. If it is, check if there is a fence so that children cannot get to the pool or lake when it is not swimming time.
The safety of off-campsite water experiences, like a visit to a
water park , also should be checked out. Some water parks have life jacket loan programs for visitors.
It is a good idea to visit the campsite and speak with the staff before enrolling your child.
Are camp staff supervising and teaching the children trained and accredited?
If swimming lessons are offered, the instructors and lifeguards should be up-to-date on certifications. Look at the website and search to see if the camp you are considering is accredited by the
American Camp Association.
Many
states have regulations for both day camps and overnight camps. You can check your own state's regulations when deciding which camp to select.
What should I tell the camp about my child's water experience and swim skills?
A camp may ask about your child's swimming skills. If you're not sure, one resource is the American Red Cross mobile
app (download or text: "SWIM" to 90999). Some camps will test your child's swim skills and then adjust water activities and supervision according to their skill level.
If your child has a medical condition or a disability that puts them at higher risk for drowning, make sure the camp has qualified staff to meet your child's needs. Medical conditions that raise a child's drowning risk include
seizures, cardiac arrhythmias and autism, for example.
Should my child wear a life jacket during water activities?
All children should be required to wear U.S. Coast Guard certified
life jackets when boating. In addition, small children and unskilled swimmers should wear life jackets when they are near water and when swimming (the exception is during swim lessons). Check to see that the camp follows these guidelines.
Does the camp follow guidelines or public pool and water playgrounds?
Public health officials developed the Model Aquatic Health Code to help ensure healthy and safe experiences in public pools and other public aquatics facilities. The code provides guidance to prevent drowning, injuries from pool chemicals and other causes, and the spread of germs that cause disease outbreaks.
Talk with your pediatrician
Camp can be a wonderful experience for kids. But keeping them safe and healthy is key. Talk with your pediatrician if you have questions about choosing a safe camp for your child. You can also check that your child is up-to-date on recommended immunizations and ask about other ways to prepare them for a happy and healthy camp experience.
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