1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish clear procedures and guidelines to ensure the safety and prompt location of a missing camper at Camp Bowen. This policy aims to minimize the risk of harm to campers and to provide a structured response in the event of a missing camper incident.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and participants at Camp Bowen.
3. Prevention
- Maintain accurate attendance records for all campers, including check-in and check-out times. - Use a buddy system to ensure campers are always accompanied by at least one other camper.
- Train all staff on the Missing Camper Policy and procedures during orientation. - Conduct regular headcounts and roll calls throughout the day, especially during transitions between activities.
- Ensure adequate staff-to-camper ratios at all times. - Assign staff to monitor specific areas during activities.
4. Procedures
4.1. Initial Response:
Immediate Action:
- If a camper is suspected missing, immediately notify the Director of Operations and Community Engagement or the highest-ranking staff member available. - Staff will be notified by staff radio of a suspected missing camper.
- Conduct a quick and thorough search of the immediate area. - Ask other campers and staff if they have seen the missing camper recently.
Containment:
– Upon notification of a missing camper, immediately gather campers and fellow staff members and lineup in front of the main camp building, creating a straight line along the side of the building.
– Do a role call to make sure all staff members and campers are present.
– If a camper is still missing, inform the Director of Operations and Community Engagement.
– Secure the camp boundaries to prevent further movement of the missing camper.
4.2. Search Procedure
4.2.1. Phase 1: Immediate Vicinity Search
– All campers and at least one staff member for every eight campers need to remain lined
up in front of the main camp building until the missing camper/campers have been located.
– The remaining staff members will conduct a search of the camp and the grounds.
– Designate staff members to search specific areas such as dorms, restrooms, common areas, and nearby trails.
- Use walkie-talkies and cell phones to coordinate the search.
4.2.2. Phase 2: Broader Area Search
- If the camper is not found in the immediate vicinity, expand the search to include the surrounding areas. - Utilize available resources such as maps and local knowledge to guide the search.
- If the camper is not on the premises, the Director of Operations and Community Engagement will notify the police using the local non-emergency number and all staff not supervising other campers to begin searching the surrounding area.
4.2.3. Phase 3: Community Involvement
- If the camper has been missing for one hour, the Director of Operations and Community Engagement to contact BC Ferries and notify them of the missing camper.
- If the camper is still not located after 2 hours, contact local authorities (e.g., police, fire department) for assistance. - The Director of Operations and Community Engagement will use all available channels (e.g. social media postings, organized door to door knocking) to enlist community members in the search of Bowen Island for the missing camper.
- Inform the camper’s emergency contact person about the situation.
4.3. Communication:
Internal Communication:
- Keep all staff informed of the situation and any developments. - Maintain a communication log documenting search efforts and actions taken.
External Communication:
- Designate a spokesperson (usually the Director of Operations and Community Engagement) to communicate with external parties, including parents, authorities, and the media. - Provide regular updates to the camper’s family and ensure they are informed of all actions being taken.
4.4. Post-Incident Procedures
Incident Reporting:
- Complete an incident report detailing the circumstances of the missing camper, search efforts, and the outcome. - Submit the report to the appropriate authorities and the Record Keeper.
Debriefing:
– Conduct a debriefing session with all involved staff to review the incident and identify areas for improvement.
- Provide support and counseling to the missing camper, other campers, and staff as needed.
Policy Review:
- Review and update the Missing Camper Policy as necessary based on lessons learned from the incident.
5. Responsibilities
- Dirrector of Operations and Community Engagement
- – Oversee the implementation of the Missing Camper Policy.
– Coordinate search efforts and communication during an incident. - Staff
- – Adhere to the procedures outlined in this policy.
– Participate in training and drills related to missing camper scenarios.
6. Conclusion:
The safety and well-being of our campers are of utmost importance. By following this Missing Camper Policy, we aim to ensure a prompt and effective response to any incidents, thereby maintaining a safe and secure environment for all participants.
7. Review an Update
This policy should be reviewed at least annually and updated as necessary to ensure its effectiveness and relevance.
