Every summer, thousands of children and youth across Australia attend summer camps. Most parents choose a summer camp based on their philosophy and their children’s needs. However, before sending them to the place, you must be familiar with the common summer camp injuries.
Summer Camps in Australia
Summertime in Australia is here! And despite COVID-19, some cities will allow summer camps to open for business.
Summer camps in Australia are not as hardcore as the American way of doing it. American summer camps usually run for three months, while the camps offered here are usually only for a week or so. The campers will live on-site, around nature, where they will do a range of activities.
There are specific camps that cater to different ages and hobbies, like surfing and horseback riding. But the focus of being at a summer camp is to spend time outdoors and encourage friendships outside the child’s normal environment.
Here are 5 common summer camp injuries to look out for.
Heat Stroke or Severe Sunburn
Campers often spend hours and hours out in the sun and scorching heat, doing outdoor activities. For that reason, it is important to have proper hydration and apply sunscreen with high sun protection features. Having adequate rest or breaks is also important to avoid devastating consequences.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the body’s core temperature hits way beyond normal. Heat illness can result in central nervous system injury or even death if first aid is not performed immediately.
Allergic Reactions
It is a good idea to prepare a list of your allergies before heading to the camp. Most camps put great effort to consider camper allergies when preparing food or activities. However, we cannot avoid the chance of cross-contamination or administrative missteps. This can cause the campers to receive the wrong dish or medicine, which can ultimately lead to a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Illnesses
Having one or more illnesses is one of the most common conditions that affect campers. Gastroenteritis, viral diseases, and even third-degree sunburns can severely injure a person. They can end up with permanent scarring or, worse, damage to the internal organs if these illnesses are left untreated. It is helpful to bring some medication and know first aid to avoid serious consequences of untreated illnesses.
Slip, Trips, and Falls
Summer camp is an exciting place for children and teenagers. They can roam around and run around the area throughout the day. Poorly kept grounds and equipment at the camp can lead to serious injuries. It can result in cuts, scratches, sprains, and even broken bones. More seriously, it can result in brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other serious medical conditions.
Outdoor and sporting equipment found in summer camps can cause serious injuries when misused and used without supervision.
Drowning accidents
Most drowning incidents occur when there are no lifeguards, or there is not enough supervision in high activity areas. Slip and fall, accidental pushing, and swimming alone are some of the incidents that can result in drowning. Swimming pool accidents are also a common cause of drowning in summer camps.
Summer camps are responsible for taking every possible precaution to ensure the safety and wellbeing of campers. However, no matter how reputable a summer camp is and how much we try to avoid them, accidents can still happen.
Prompt first aid is necessary to avoid injuries from becoming debilitating and permanent. Learn first aid, and do not let these injuries prevent you from having a fun summer.
Please contact us at 08 8382 4677 or email courses@firstaidpro.com.au for more information.
