Safe environs at summer camps priority of parents

Summer camps that promise a fun-filled experience for children need to ensure safe environs for the children.

“Swimmers need the right coach. Ideally, it should be one coach for every five students; but in some cases, it can extend to ten students. Besides, water in the pool should be tested and the organisers must provide adequate medical facilities at the camps,” says national swim coach, Nihar Ameen.

Apart from a certified coach, there should be well-trained life guards to supervise the children practising swimming, believes Pradeep, a coach at the Basavanagudi Swimming Pool. Also, there needs to be mock drills, which will help them in any emergency situation.
“Even private pool owners need to be aware of the risks involved when one swims, and be prepared to combat them,” he added.

Most organisers of summer camps believe that the security of the child can be maintained and ensured. They claim that their staff are well equipped in providing first aid and a kit at their disposal at all times. And in case of emergency, they boast of the camp’s proximity to a hospital.

Moiz, marketing manager of Extreme Sports said: “We have our safety gear in place, and are very particular that life-jacket is used during water sports. We also have a doctor on site.” When it come to adventure-related activities, parents make sure their child gets the best in the safest environment. Most mothers make sure they speak personally with the organisers before they give their consent to their children joining the camp.

“The qualification of the organisers is very important. I make sure that I personally meet the camp councillors and get their numbers so that I can stay in touch with them and get regular updates on my child,” said Sirni, a mother of two.

The kind of crowd that will attend the camp is also a huge concern for the parents. “I usually send my kids to camps that have been referred to me by friends. That way, I know it is a trusted place,” said Ranchana, another parent.

Safety measures are what most mothers vouch for when they send their children to take part in swimming and other activities.  Water hygiene and maintenance of the pool is something that is stressed on, not only by the parents but also by high-ranking coaches.

Be it a private pool or a public one, water should be cleaned thoroughly and regularly, the parents believe.