INFORMATION

Health and Safety Policy

 

At River Pointe Church Camp, the health and safety of our campers, staff, and volunteers is a top priority. Our "Health and Safety Policy" is designed to create a safe, healthy, and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. This policy outlines procedures and protocols for addressing medical concerns, preventing illness and injury, and ensuring the overall well-being of all participants.

 

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear guidelines for maintaining a safe and healthy camp environment, ensuring that medical needs are met, emergencies are managed effectively, and risks are minimized.

 

Medical Care and First Aid

1. Camp Medical Staff:

   - A certified nurse or medical professional is on duty 24 hours a day during camp sessions. This individual is responsible for administering medication, providing first aid, and managing any health-related issues that arise.

   - Campers and staff can visit the infirmary at designated times or in the event of an emergency.

 

2. First Aid Kits:

   - First aid kits are available in the Nurses Station.

 

3. Responding to Medical Emergencies:

   - In the event of a medical emergency, staff should:

     1. Immediately assess the situation and provide first aid if trained and necessary.

     2. Notify the medical staff or nurse as quickly as possible, either in person or by walkie-talkie.

     3. If necessary, contact local emergency services by dialing 911. Always inform the Camp Director immediately in the event of a serious emergency.

   - If a camper or staff member needs to be transported to the hospital, the Camp Director will contact the camper’s parent or guardian.

 

Medication Administration

1. Medication Policies:

   - All medications (both prescription and over-the-counter) must be turned into the camp nurse or designated medical staff upon arrival at camp. Campers are not permitted to keep medication in their cabins or dorms.

   - The camp nurse will store medications securely and administer them according to the camper's needs and the instructions provided by their parent or guardian.

   - Staff and volunteers who require medication must also follow the same procedure and keep their medications with the medical staff.

 

2. Medication Schedule:

   - Medication will be administered at designated times throughout the day. It is the responsibility of the camper and their counselor to ensure the camper visits the infirmary for their scheduled medication.

   - Special accommodations will be made for campers who require medications outside the standard administration times.

 

Preventing Illness and Injury

1. Illness Prevention:

   - Staff and campers will be educated on proper hygiene practices, including handwashing before meals and after using the restroom.

   - Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout campgrounds, particularly in high-traffic areas like the Cafeteria and activity centers.

   - Campers or staff showing signs of illness (fever, vomiting, etc.) will be sent to the Nurses Station for evaluation and may be isolated to prevent the spread of illness if necessary.

 

2. Injury Prevention:

   - Counselors are responsible for overseeing safe behavior during all camp activities. They will be trained in safety protocols for activities such as swimming, hiking, sports, and other high-risk activities.

   - Protective gear (helmets, pads, etc.) must be used where required, and staff will ensure that all equipment is in good working condition before activities begin.

   - Campgrounds will be inspected regularly for potential hazards, and any issues (e.g., broken equipment, unsafe areas) will be reported and addressed immediately.

 

Emergency Procedures

1. **Fire Safety:**

   - Fire extinguishers are available in all buildings, and staff will be trained in fire evacuation procedures.

   - In the event of a fire, all campers and staff must evacuate to the designated assembly point. A headcount will be conducted to ensure everyone is accounted for.

 

2. **Severe Weather:**

   - In the event of severe weather (such as tornadoes or lightning storms), campers and staff will be directed to pre-designated safe areas (e.g., basements, interior rooms).

   - Counselors are responsible for ensuring the safe and orderly movement of their group to shelter.

 

3. **Medical Emergencies:**

   - If a camper or staff member experiences a medical emergency (e.g., asthma attack, allergic reaction, serious injury), the camp nurse or medical staff will be contacted immediately.

   - If emergency medical services are required, 911 will be called, and the Camp Director will notify the camper’s parents or guardians.

 

4. **Accidents and Injuries:**

   - Any accidents or injuries, no matter how minor, must be reported to the medical staff for documentation and evaluation.

   - Serious injuries (broken bones, deep cuts, etc.) will require a written incident report, and parents/guardians will be contacted.

 

Allergies and Dietary Restrictions

1. Food Allergies:

   - All food allergies must be disclosed during registration and confirmed with the camp nurse upon arrival. The kitchen staff will be informed of any dietary restrictions or food allergies. Food stored for dietary needs will be stored in the Nurses Station. 

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Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being

1. Emotional Support:

   - Counselors will recognize signs of emotional distress, such as homesickness, anxiety, or depression. They will provide emotional support and notify the camp nurse or camp leadership if further assistance is needed.

   - The camp nurse and leadership team will provide additional support to campers struggling with emotional or mental health issues, including facilitating communication with parents if necessary.

 

2. **Conflict Resolution:**

   - Campers experiencing conflict with peers will receive guidance from their counselor on resolving issues peacefully and respectfully. The camp leadership team will step in if needed to mediate serious conflicts.

 

3. **Counseling Services:**

   - While River Pointe Church Camp does not have an on-site licensed counselor, pastoral care is available for campers or staff who need spiritual or emotional guidance. In more serious cases, outside mental health professionals may be consulted with parental consent.

 

Health and Safety Training for Staff

1. First Aid and CPR Certification:

   - All nursing staff members must complete first aid and CPR training before camp begins. Staff will also be trained in the camp’s emergency procedures and safety protocols.

 

Conclusion

The "Health and Safety Policy" at River Pointe Church Camp ensures that all campers, staff, and volunteers are well-cared for in a safe, healthy, and supportive environment. By following these guidelines and maintaining open communication, we can provide a camp experience that fosters physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being for everyone. It is the responsibility of all staff and volunteers to adhere to this policy and prioritize the health and safety of our camp community.