Camper safety is of the utmost concern to every member of Camp Echo’s staff. From the moment campers arrive on camp property, they are taught to be aware of their surroundings and instructed on what to do in the event of an injury or emergency. Camp being camp, injuries and illness do happen, but our staff is trained to handle such events quickly and appropriately.
Staff Training
Camp Echo’s staff training is tiered based on staff levels of responsibilities, ranging from one (Cabin Counselors) to three full weeks (Adventure Trip Guides). During this training, staff are taught how to reduce the risk of common summer camp injuries and ailments, and how to handle them as they occur.
All counselors that have graduated from high school are required to hold up-to-date CPR and First Aid certification. Counselors who work on the waterfront have Lifeguard certification. Trip Guides are 21 years old or older, have an additional eleven days of training at Camp Echo, and are certified as both a Lifeguard and Wilderness First Responder.
Camp Echo’s Klein Clinic
The Klein Clinic, Camp Echo’s medical center located at Main Camp, is staffed twenty-four hours a day by a Health Officer responsible for the overall care of the entire camp population. Most Camp Echo staff members are required to have current certifications in First Aid and CPR. When health matters require it, campers will be driven into town and seen by a Nurse Practitioner, a Physician’s Assistant, or a Physician.
In case of serious illness or confinement to the Clinic for more than 12 consecutive hours (or for the night), or the need to go into town, the Health Officer will notify parents by phone. Parents can reach the Clinic directly by calling 231- 924-7072.
Finally, Gerber Memorial Hospital in the city of Fremont is located about 15 minutes away from camp; if necessary, an ambulance may be dispatched to Camp Echo to pick up an injured person.
Scheduled or Prescription Medications
Parents of campers who bring scheduled or prescription medications to camp must complete the Scheduled or Prescription Med Form. All prescription drugs must be in original labeled containers; send only the exact amount needed during the stay at camp. Inhalers should be treated like meds – they should be listed on the form, along with an indication of whether it is necessary for the camper to carry the inhaler at all times. If a new medication is prescribed for a camper, parents will be notified by phone. The Health Officer stores all medications and distributes medications at meals, at bedtime, and as needed.
The Health Center has a supply of non-prescription medications for distribution by the Health Officer according to standing orders authorized by a licensed physician. The parent’s signature on the Health Form authorizes routine medical care by the Health Officer. Routine care may include distribution of Tylenol or other pain relievers, Sudafed, or Robitussin; common medications for upset stomachs; and other non-prescription medications. Parents who require phone contact prior to the administration of over-the-counter medications must indicate this on the Health Form by circling CALL FOR OTC PERMISSION.
