13 Types of Safety Incidents in Summer Camps

Trips, Slips and Falls

In wooded paths, wet grass, or bustling cabins, falls are the most common incidents at camps — and they can happen in a blink.

Risk factors include:

• Poorly maintained trails and flooring

• Running in wet or cluttered areas

• Inadequate footwear for outdoor terrain

Preventive tip: Regular inspections and safety briefings before hikes or sports can reduce these risks significantly.

Heat-Related Illnesses

A long day under the sun can be more dangerous than it looks — dehydration and heatstroke are stealthy and serious.

Watch for:

• Dizziness, confusion, flushed skin

• Excessive sweating or, worryingly, none at all

• Muscle cramps or vomiting

Action: Hydration protocols and heat index monitoring should be standard practice in camp schedules.

Water-Related Incidents

Lakes and pools offer summer fun — but they're also high-risk areas. Drowning is silent and quick.

Best practices:

• Lifeguards present and alert

• Life jackets required for boating or weak swimmers

• Structured swim testing and supervision

Lost or Missing Campers

Even temporary disappearances can cause panic. Poor supervision or unclear boundaries often play a role.

Avoid this nightmare by:

• Conducting regular headcounts

• Using buddy systems

• Clearly marking perimeters and trails

Respond fast: Have a documented search-and-alert protocol in place.

Food Allergies and Anaphylaxis

A seemingly innocent snack can trigger a medical emergency — especially when staff are unaware of a camper’s condition.

Preventive actions:

• Maintain allergy profiles for every camper

• Ensure epinephrine (EpiPens) are accessible

• Train staff in recognising and responding to reactions

Fires and Burns

Whether it’s a glowing campfire or a hot metal pot, burns are a serious risk — and fires can spread quickly in natural settings.

Burn risks include:

• Cooking mishaps

• Sunburn

• Mishandling lanterns, stoves, or firepits

Fire prevention includes:

• Supervised fire activity only

• Fire extinguishers and blankets nearby

• Enforcing “no unattended flames” policies

Behavioural and Emotional Incidents

Camps can amplify behavioural issues such as bullying, aggression, or anxiety. These are just as critical as physical hazards.

Prevention involves:

• Setting expectations early

• Monitoring group dynamics

• Having trained staff to manage conflict or distress

Insect Bites and Animal Encounters

From tick bites to snake sightings, camps are full of natural wildlife — and sometimes, it bites back.

Protect campers by:

• Applying insect repellent regularly

• Encouraging long clothing during hikes

• Teaching campers to avoid and report wildlife sightings

Cuts, Lacerations, and Sharp Objects

Crafting, hiking, or sports can all lead to sharp injuries — not quite cinematic, but still serious.

Reduce these risks by:

• Supervising tool use and DIY activities

• Equipping first aid kits near high-risk areas

• Replacing damaged or unsafe equipment

Vehicle and Transport Incidents

Camps often involve travel — to field trips, lakes, or airports. Transport incidents, though rare, can be severe.

Preventive measures:

• Hire vetted transport providers

• Ensure functioning seatbelts and emergency exits

• Keep a detailed transport log and itinerary

Chemical Exposure

Cleaning fluids, fuel for lanterns, or insecticides can cause poisoning or skin reactions if mishandled.

Risk mitigation includes:

• Storing chemicals securely and away from camper areas

• Labelling all substances clearly

• Training staff in safe handling procedures

Equipment Failures

Poorly maintained gear — from zip lines to tents — can lead to injuries, especially during high-intensity activities.

Maintenance plan should include:

• Regular inspections of all outdoor gear

• Immediate removal of damaged items

• Staff checks before activity use

Infectious Disease Outbreaks

Cabin fever takes on new meaning when illness spreads. Communal living increases the risk of contagious outbreaks.

Control protocols:

• Promote regular handwashing and hygiene

• Isolate anyone showing symptoms

• Clean shared surfaces and bedding frequently

Conclusion - Safety Shouldn’t Be a Horror Story

Although the setting might resemble a film location — cabins, woods, flickering lanterns and misty lakes — a well-managed summer camp is far from the chaos depicted in horror stories. In fact, it should be the opposite: a place where safety is not just assumed, but actively protected through planning, awareness, and preparation.

To summarise, all camps should:

• Conduct detailed risk assessments for all activities

• Provide comprehensive staff training in first aid, safeguarding, and emergency procedures

• Maintain suitable staff-to-camper ratios

• Implement digital systems for incident logging and communication

• Regularly review and update emergency contact protocols

Risk management, incident reporting tools, and regular staff training are the difference between an ordinary mishap and a preventable crisis.