We must as parents be proactive in making the camp experience as safe as we can.
REPORTS MAKE IT SAFER FOR THE CHILDREN
Written By: Geordie Heath These reports are in response to requests from Kim Smith of Camp Tanamakoon one of the camps of the Algonquin Park Camping Association who were made aware of Michael's death. What we know to be true is that Michael's death following a swimming incident at Tamakwa has made it safer at summer camps.
Geordie Heath of the Muskoka Ambulance Service did a research study at the request of the camps which also assisted the CACC "911 service" to determine where each camp is located. They identified each camp by GPS, they identified landing sites, reviewed each camps procedures for emergencies, and the results were presented to the camp owners prior to the 2008 season.
We hope the Canadian Government and the multiple agencies involved are encouraged to improve the laws governing recreational camps, occupational codes and work to ensure that the chances of death of campers or staff in serious accidents is greatly diminished. But we are also realistic in that we know it will never be totally safe.
Kim Smith of Camp Tanamakoon has confirmed with me personally that the work the Muskoka Ambulance Service did on behalf of the Algonquin Camping Association has made it safer for the camps in algonquin Park.
