Camp WA WA Segowea is an ACA Accredited Camp and is licensed by the Town of New Marlborough Board of Public Health. These entities require the highest standards for participant safety in the camp industry. For more information, please contact our Camp Director at lily@smithpark.org.

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We have an AED in Base Camp at all times and are 20 minutes away from emergency response EMT and fire services. Additionally, we are a 30-minute drive from two Emergency Room departments: Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington, MA and Hartford Healthcare ER in Winsted, CT. Additionally, our healthcare center is stocked with basic supplies for immediate response to illnesses and injuries. 

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Here are a few FAQs specific to safety that can be helpful when exploring a new camp:

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What safety training do staff undergo?

Summer Seasonal Staff attend a one-week pre-season training at the end of June. This week includes numerous hours of safety training and certifications as needed for specialty areas and healthcare response. Counselors are First Aid and CPR/AED certified by the Red Cross.

 

Additional training is given in the following areas:

• Program Safety Policies & Procedures

• Child Development & Behavior Management

• Crises Management & Response 

• Abuse Awareness & Prevention

• Allergy Awareness

• Bullying Awareness & Prevention

• Intruder Response

• Equity & Inclusion 

• Waterfront Safety 

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How is healthcare managed at camp?

Our healthcare is supervised by a Pediatric Certified Nurse Practitioner who serves as our Healthcare Consultant. Additionally, a certified nurse is onsite during all overnight camp programs, and select staff are trained as Healthcare Supervisors. All medication is administered daily by these trained staff members and under the supervision of the Healthcare Consultant. Specific policies regarding health and wellness can be found in our Guardian Handbook. 

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Does Camp WA WA conduct background checks?

All staff and volunteers undergo criminal background checks, employment, and personal reference checks (4 per candidate). Additionally, staff candidates are personally referred to our program by existing staff and alumni. 

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How is the waterfront staffed for safety?

All lifeguards are Red Cross Certified and receive onsite training during pre-season and throughout the summer. The waterfront is managed by a certified Waterfront Safety Instructor (WSI), and lifeguards are certified on-site by a certified Lifeguard Instructor. 

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