INFORMATION
If You See Something, Say Something" Policy
At River Pointe Church Camp, the safety and security of our campers, staff, and volunteers is our top priority. To maintain a safe and supportive environment, it is essential that all members of the camp community remain vigilant and proactive. The **"If You See Something, Say Something"** policy empowers everyone to take responsibility for camp safety by reporting any suspicious, inappropriate, or unsafe behavior or situations. Early reporting of concerns can help prevent potential issues and ensure the well-being of all.
Purpose
This policy encourages staff, volunteers, and campers to speak up if they observe anything unusual or concerning, whether it relates to camper behavior, safety hazards, or potential threats. By fostering a culture of awareness and open communication, we can address concerns promptly and protect the camp community.
When to Say Something
1. Inappropriate Camper Behavior:
- If you see campers engaging in activities they are not supposed to, such as rule-breaking, unsafe behavior, bullying, or disrespect toward others, "say something" to a Head Counselor, or camp director.
- This includes inappropriate physical, emotional, or social behavior that may put themselves or others at risk.
2. Unsupervised Campers in Dorms:
- If you see a camper in the dormitory without a counselor or adult supervision, "say something" immediately. Campers should never be left unsupervised in dorms or other areas, and ensuring constant supervision is critical to safety.
3. Something Feels Off:
- Trust your instincts. If something seems off or unusual—whether it’s behavior, an activity, or a situation that makes you uncomfortable—**say something** to a counselor or camp leadership. Even if it turns out to be a misunderstanding, it’s always better to check and ensure the safety of everyone.
4. Unknown or Unauthorized Individuals:
- If you notice someone on campgrounds who does not appear to belong (someone not in camp uniform or without proper identification), **say something** immediately. Ensuring that only authorized individuals are on camp premises is essential for security.
5. Potential Safety Hazards:
- If you observe any potential safety hazards, such as broken equipment, dangerous conditions, or environmental risks, "say something" to camp staff so it can be addressed before it leads to an accident.
6. Suspicion of Abuse or Misconduct:
- If you suspect that a camper or staff member is being harmed or engaging in inappropriate behavior (physical, emotional, or sexual abuse), "say something" immediately. All staff members are mandatory reporters and must follow child protection protocols.
How to Report
- In Person: Speak directly to a group leader, head counselor, or camp director, about your concern.
- **In Emergencies:** If the situation requires immediate attention, do not hesitate. Use the fastest means of communication, such as a walkie-talkie, to notify the main office or the camp director.
Response to Reports
1. Immediate Action:
- Once a report is made, camp leadership will assess the situation and take immediate action if necessary. This may involve removing campers from a dangerous situation, contacting authorities, or addressing potential threats.
2. Investigation and Follow-Up:
- Camp leadership will follow up on all reported concerns, investigating the situation thoroughly. Depending on the nature of the issue, the camp director may involve other staff members, parents, or authorities.
3. Confidentiality:
- The identity of the person reporting the issue will be kept confidential whenever possible. We encourage open communication, but understand that some may feel more comfortable with anonymity.
4. Positive Outcomes:
- When concerns are reported, we can address them early, preventing more serious issues from developing. Campers and staff should feel empowered to report without fear of judgment or retaliation.
Why It Matters
By speaking up when you see something unusual or concerning, you are playing a vital role in ensuring the safety of our camp community. Early intervention can prevent accidents, protect vulnerable individuals, and create a culture of trust and security.
- **For Campers:** You are helping create a safe space where everyone can enjoy camp without fear or discomfort.
- **For Staff:** You are ensuring that your colleagues and campers are protected from harm and that camp policies are being followed.
- **For Parents:** You are reassuring parents that their children are in a caring, safe environment.
Encouraging a Culture of Awareness
At River Pointe Church Camp, we encourage everyone to stay aware of their surroundings and be mindful of the behavior and well-being of others. A culture of awareness helps prevent accidents, misconduct, and unsafe situations before they escalate.
Consequences for Failure to Report
Staff and volunteers who fail to report unsafe behavior or conditions may face disciplinary action. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of the camp community.
Conclusion
At River Pointe Church Camp, we believe that maintaining a safe and secure environment is everyone’s responsibility. The "If You See Something, Say Something" policy ensures that we can quickly identify and address any concerns that may arise. Whether it’s a safety hazard, inappropriate behavior, or something that just feels wrong, we encourage everyone to speak up. Together, we can create a safe, positive, and Christ-centered environment for all.
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This policy encourages vigilance and proactive action, empowering everyone at camp to contribute to a safe, secure, and supportive environment.