Safety & Wellness
At SJYC, nothing matters more than the well-being of our campers and counselors-in-training (CITs). Whether children join us for the day or for an overnight session, safety is the foundation of every experience. Families trust us with their children, and we take that responsibility seriously. The standards of the American Camp Association inform our policies, procedures, and practices, guiding us as we create a safe and welcoming camp environment.
Building a Culture of Safety
Our approach begins with the people who care for your children. All staff members are federally background-checked and fingerprinted, and most of our team grew up at camp themselves. This means our staff understand the culture of care that makes SJYC special.
We maintain low camper-to-counselor ratios, giving children personalized attention and the support they need. Staff members are trained in first aid, CPR, AED use, and emergency procedures. They also learn activity-specific safety and how to create a safe camp environment. Part of that training includes supervision practices, so campers are never left in one-on-one, unobservable situations.
From the very first day, campers are introduced to age-appropriate rules and expectations. We encourage them to communicate openly about their needs, whether it’s a small scrape or a bigger concern. Our staff foster an environment where every child knows their voice will be heard.
Health and Medical Safety
A registered or licensed professional nurse is always present on site, administering medications and responding to health needs. The nurse works closely with our on-call Medical Director, and our infirmary is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses. With three AEDs available in central locations, and local emergency services just minutes away, families can feel confident that medical care is always close at hand.
Every summer, the Coconino County Health Department inspects and licenses our facility. In the kitchen, all staff hold food handler certifications and follow strict sanitation policies. Meals are prepared on site, and we accommodate food allergies by preparing those meals separately to prevent cross-contact.
Activity Safety
We believe fun and adventure are safest when paired with preparation. All of our activities are led by trained staff who know how to balance excitement with responsibility.
Campers must wear life jackets when kayaking or participating in water activities.
Helmets are required for horseback riding.
Ropes and challenge courses use secure harnesses and equipment that are checked before each use.
Archery is led by trained instructors, with clear range rules.
Science and astronomy experiments use gloves, goggles, or other protective gear when needed.
Field games and group activities are designed to be age-appropriate and are always closely supervised.
Emergency Preparedness
We maintain comprehensive emergency plans that cover fires, severe weather, medical incidents, missing persons, and more. Campers and staff practice drills so that everyone knows what to do if an emergency occurs. Staff use phones and radios to stay connected across camp and on hikes, ensuring quick communication at all times.
Safety as the Foundation
At SJYC, safety is not just one part of the program. It is the foundation that makes everything else possible. The joy of campfires, the thrill of outdoor adventure, the friendships that last a lifetime — none of it can happen without a deep sense of trust and security. Safety is our number one priority, and it is what allows everyone to build memories that will stay with them long after summer ends.