When creating a summer camp program, necessary steps and requirements include the safety of camp participants. It’s a good business practice to have coverage for accidents or liabilities that may occur. Insurance for camps is usually called: accident, liability, or special risk insurance.
Each state has different requirements regarding compliance for summer camp programs. For many camp programs and camp events, the authority falls under the state health department.1 For some states the licensing and permit fees may vary depending on the location or the county where the camp is located.1
Summer camp activities
A day camp or an overnight camp involves activities for children and youth. Activities may include sports, such as swimming, ropes course, and hiking. Some camps may consider purchasing blanket health insurance. Although blanket health insurance doesn’t provide comprehensive medical benefits to employees, it does offer coverage that is usually accident-only, with a specific purpose for a larger group of people.2 A blanket health insurance policy means all those involved in the camp from children attending, to camp staff, and volunteers may be covered under a protective policy in case of accidents.
"As a camp owner or director, communicating what your camp insurance covers is helpful and assuring to parents and staff."
A camp with a blanket health insurance policy may help ease parent’s concerns about their child attending the camp. As a camp owner or director, communicating what your camp insurance covers may be helpful and provide assurance to parents and staff.
According to the American Camp Association (ACA), there are more than 15,000 day and overnight camps, and collectively, ACA impacts 26 million campers annually.3 The ACA provides guidance, training, and accreditation for camp owners and camp staff.3
When checking the details on insurance coverage, you may want to ask a licensed insurance agent or broker these questions:
- What does the insurance policy cover?
- What other value-added services do you provide for summer camps?4
Be prepared for camp accidents
With so many activities planned for summer camps, it’s important the camp is prepared for the chance of common accidents and injuries. Common medical injuries that occur at camps include cuts, burns, falls and collisions, rashes and bites, and minor illnesses.5
Consider taking the following preventative measures:
- Have the proper medical supplies and equipment stocked and readily available.
- Regular upkeep of materials, buildings, and equipment.
- Safety training for camp equipment and activities (this includes staff and volunteers).
- CPR and first aid training for staff.
- Enforcing camp rules and safety training for the campers.
Speak to a licensed insurance company agent who sells camp insurance to learn how you can help protect your organization.
Sources:
- ACA https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/082114/how-cash-value-builds-life-insurance-policy.asp, Accessed 2024.
- https://www.myshortlister.com/insights/difference-between-group-insurance-blanket-health-policies
- ACA https://www.acacamps.org/about/annual-report/2023-annual-impact-report, Accessed 2024.
- ACA https://members.acacamps.org/Buyers-Guide/Buyers-Guide-Listing?category={DF6259A7-1EBD-DF11-A091-0019B9E0E8C9}, Accessed 2024.
- MAFASCO https://www.mfasco.com/blog/health-topics/the-most-common-summer-camp-injuries_2.html, Accessed 2024.
Categories: Accident Insurance, Insurance