Emergency Procedures

In order to provide a safe and effective camping program, the following policies have been established for Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan Scout Reservation by the Northeast Illinois Council.  Many of these policies are also required by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America and state and local regulations.

 “RETURN TO CAMPSITE” SIREN

An emergency requiring a headcount of all scouts and leaders is indicated by a wavering tone on the camp siren. Campers and leaders are to return to their campsites immediately. An adult leader for each unit will account for all campers (or assemble a list of those missing). A pair of runners (buddy system) will be sent from each unit to the camp office to report.  All others will await further instructions in the campsite.  As conditions warrant, campers should assemble under the site shelter or in the designated emergency location for the campsite.  Campers should remain assembled until an “all clear” is sounded (4 short blasts of the siren) or a staff member gives further instructions.

 “IMMEDIATE SHELTER” SIREN

When conditions warrant, a solid blast will be sounded on the camp siren. When this siren is heard all campers and leaders should seek shelter IMMEDIATELY! Shelter locations are posted in every program area and every campsite. Stay sheltered until four short blasts are sounded on the camp siren or help arrives.

HEALTH EMERGENCIES

Injuries of a serious or incapacitating nature shall be reported immediately to the Health Lodge, Camp Director, and/or Reservation Director, who will determine the appropriate response.  Do not attempt to move the individual.  Transportation to a hospital will be by camp emergency vehicle or as designated by camp authorities.  All departures from camp for health or medical issues must be arranged through the Health Officer.

LOST CAMPER

When a camper is assumed to be missing, the Reservation Director will designate the appropriate response and search by camp personnel.  If necessary, all reservation personnel will be utilized for an organized search of the area.  Local authorities will be notified at the discretion of the Reservation Director.

HEAT-RELATED EMERGENCIES

When temperatures in camp exceed 85°F, or when the heat index warrants it, a heat emergency may be declared by the Reservation Director.  In such an emergency, all strenuous activity in program areas will be halted, the Horse Ranch will be closed, and additional staff will be provided at the waterfronts for open swimming.  In such conditions, leaders are asked to assist in encouraging Scouts to moderate activity, wear appropriate sun protection, and drink plenty of water.  Messages in the dining hall will indicate appropriate responses to any heat emergency.

ALWAYS NOTE THE LOCATION OF THE NEAREST STAFF ASSISTANCE AND THE CLOSEST EMERGENCY SHELTER AREA.

WHEREVER YOU GO, WHATEVER YOU DO, ALWAYS BRING A BUDDY OR TWO!

PRINTABLE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES FLYER

We post this in every camp site and important areas of camp. You can print your own here.