Your Neighbourhood Camp Anaphylaxis Policy

Your Neighbourhood Camp Anaphylaxis Policy

1. Purpose

Our top priorities are the safety and well-being of all campers. This policy establishes procedures for preventing and responding to anaphylactic reactions among campers, ensuring their safety and well-being during camp activities. It aligns with Canadian allergy guidelines and best practices for managing severe allergies.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff members, volunteers, and campers at Your Neighbourhood Camp. It is designed to ensure that everyone is informed and prepared to respond effectively to an anaphylactic emergency.

3. Definitions

  • Anaphylaxis: A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can develop rapidly. Common triggers include certain foods (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs), insect stings, medications, and latex.

  • Epinephrine Auto-Injector (EpiPen): A medical device used to deliver a life-saving dose of epinephrine to treat anaphylaxis.

  • Individual Plan of Care: A personalized document outlining a camper’s specific allergy triggers, symptoms, and emergency response plan.

4. Prevention Strategies

To minimize the risk of exposure to allergens, Your Neighbourhood Camp will implement the following prevention measures:

  • Allergen-Safe Zones: These are designated eating areas that are free of common allergens, such as peanuts and tree nuts.

  • Education & Awareness: Staff, campers, and volunteers will receive training on recognizing anaphylaxis and avoiding allergen exposure.

  • Food Handling & Labeling: Any food provided by the camp will be reviewed to prevent cross-contamination.

  • Medical Identification: Campers with severe allergies must wear a medical alert bracelet or provide easily accessible documentation.

  • Epinephrine Accessibility: Campers with known anaphylaxis must carry their EpiPen at all times, and a second EpiPen (if provided) will be stored in a designated, accessible location.

5. Emergency Response

If a camper shows signs of anaphylaxis, the following steps will be taken immediately:

1. Administer Epinephrine (EpiPen) Immediately

  • If a camper is experiencing a known or suspected anaphylactic reaction, epinephrine must be given right away.

  • Staff will follow the instructions on the EpiPen for proper administration.

  • If in doubt, always administer epinephrine first—it is safe and life-saving.

2. Call 911 Immediately

  • Inform emergency services that a camper is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction.

  • Provide details on the child’s condition and the fact that epinephrine has been administered.

  • A staff member will stay with the camper while another person calls for emergency help.

3. Notify Parent/Guardian

  • Contact the camper’s emergency contact as soon as possible after emergency services have been called.

  • Inform them of the reaction, the administration of epinephrine, and the call to emergency services.

  • Parents will be advised to meet the child at the hospital or designated emergency location.

4. Monitor the Camper While Waiting for Emergency Services

  • A second dose of epinephrine may be administered if symptoms do not improve within 5-10 minutes.

  • The camper will be kept lying down or in a comfortable position and monitored for changes in breathing and responsiveness.

  • Staff will record the time and dose of epinephrine administered to emergency responders.

6. Individual Plan of Care

  • Parents/guardians must complete and submit an Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan before camp attendance.\

    The plan should include:

  • A list of allergens

  • Typical symptoms

  • Emergency contact information

  • A statement allowing camp staff to administer epinephrine if needed

  • Staff will review and familiarize themselves with each camper’s plan to ensure they are prepared to respond effectively in an emergency.

7. Staff Training

All staff and volunteers will receive annual training on:

  • Recognizing the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis

  • Proper administration of an EpiPen

  • Emergency procedures and response protocol

8. Communication Plan

Your Neighbourhood Camp is committed to raising awareness and ensuring all staff, campers, and parents are informed about anaphylaxis management.

  • Parents will receive a copy of this policy upon registration and must acknowledge understanding of the procedures.

  • Staff will be briefed on individual campers’ allergies at the start of each camp session.

  • Campers will receive age-appropriate education on allergy awareness and safety.

9. Review and Evaluation

  • This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary based on current medical guidelines and feedback from staff and parents.

  • Incident reports will be evaluated to improve response strategies and training as needed.