No matter what kind of camp you’re running—overnight, day, sports, wilderness, arts and crafts—accidents happen. Kids might fall during a game, get stung by a bee, or forget to mention they have a peanut allergy until it’s too late. With campers ranging from energetic preschoolers to independent teens and staff comprising of seasoned adults and young counselors-in-training, knowing how to prepare camp staff to handle first aid situations is critical to keeping everyone safe.
Here’s how to cover your bases and build a team that’s ready for anything.
Know the Camp Environment
Begin by evaluating the camp’s unique layout and setup. Is the camp near wooded trails? A lake or pool? Does your camp have a rock wall or host sports tournaments? Understanding the types of injuries most likely to occur, such as twisted ankles, splinters, sunburns, or dehydration, can help you tailor training and supplies to the specific environment.
Additionally, consider the location’s proximity to emergency services. Some camps are located within city limits, while others are situated deep in the woods, where response times may be slower. That’s when a well-trained staff becomes the front line of defense.
Train for the Unexpected
At a minimum, camp staff should be knowledgeable in CPR, basic wound care, taping up a sprain, and recognizing symptoms of heat stroke or allergic reactions. But it goes beyond the basics. Training should also teach staff how to remain calm, communicate effectively with campers in distress, and respond promptly in situations such as asthma attacks or choking incidents.
And don’t forget about epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens). Some staff members may require additional training in this area, especially those who are new or younger.
Gather the Right Supplies
A quick first aid kit should be just that—fast, compact, and ready to go. Smaller kits should be accompanied by staff on hiking trails, at pools, or at off-site events. Each should include essentials like gloves, bandages, antiseptics, antihistamines, tweezers, and CPR masks.
At the same time, base camps should maintain a fully stocked main kit that includes backup supplies, ice packs, additional emergency medication, and essential equipment, such as an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
Don’t forget to regularly check expiration dates, test equipment like the AED, and restock supplies as needed.
Understand Camp Protocols
Even if your staff knows first aid, it’s important they also know your camp’s practices. This includes where to report injuries, how to contact parents, and the proper procedure for logging incidents. Many camps use standardized forms for liability reasons and accurately filling them out matters.
Camp leadership should review these reports weekly and include documentation as part of their closing process at the end of each season.
Moreover, flag any conditions on medical forms at the start of the camping season. This way, counselors are prepared to support children with these needs discreetly and respectfully.
Don’t Skip Refresher Training
Knowing how to prepare camp staff to handle first aid situations means committing to continued learning. Mid-season refreshers, quick drills, or walking through a few “what if” scenarios during staff meetings keep skills sharp and minds focused, as confidence counts in an emergency.
