The thought of summer camp in the not-too-distant future will likely bring smiles to many faces.   After all, jumping in a pool, getting messy with arts and crafts, and running around a soccer or baseball field is probably a welcome break from nonstop online games, too much time spent on social media, and endless Zooming.   Camp is a great opportunity for children and teens to socialize with friends this upcoming summer.  Many of our members have adapted during this pandemic and the summer of 2021 will continue to present some challenges for children and staff.

All summer staff are considered employees of a municipality, and therefore required by New York State to undergo annual training on Bloodborne Pathogens, Right to Know, Workplace Violence and Anti-Harassment.  Please ensure that your summer staff receives annual training on these topics.  It is also recommended lifeguards and other outdoor staff, (such as camp counselors) obtain training on sun safety and vector borne diseases and other related topics.  Please see   https://www.compalliance.org/comp-alliance-academy.html for more details.   

The challenges facing staff this year will be unique to the circumstances surrounding the on-going pandemic.  We are not out of the woods yet with this deadly virus.  Having an up-to-date safety plan that deals with the virus, in addition to the normal summer recreation exposures, will keep your staff on the same page with all safety procedures. All employees should receive training on the plan during initial orientations. Since some of these locations have not been used throughout the year make sure first aid kits, medical office supplies, generic medication and sanitation equipment are adequate and replenish low inventory. 

Camp administrators may consider implementing several strategies to encourage behaviors that reduce the spread of COVID-19.    Social distancing should be maintained where possible and masks should be worn as well.  Require summer staff to wear masks during their shifts and breaks, except when eating and drinking. Use of shared objects such as art supplies, mats, games etcetera should be limited when possible, or cleaned between use.

Educate staff, campers, and their families about when they should stay home and when they can return to camp.  Actively encourage employees and campers who are sick or have recently had a close contact with a person with COVID-19 to stay home.  Of course, staff and campers should stay home if they have tested positive for or are showing COVID-19 symptoms.

These safety recommendations will make this upcoming summer a safe and productive season for all staff and attendees.