Resource Toolbox

Resource
TOOLBOX

The Resources Toolbox is your go-to hub for additional support, guidance, and practical tools to help camps succeed in meeting MCA standards. This page is designed to help camps dig deeper into accreditation requirements, better understand expectations, and access valuable resources that support continuous improvement. Whether you are preparing for accreditation, reviewing policies, or looking for best practices, the Resources Toolbox provides helpful information to strengthen your camp operations and create safe, high-quality camp experiences.

For accreditation assistance chat with Nancy | accreditation@manitobacamping.ca

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Standard & Accreditation Manual | 2026

JUMP RIGHT TO THE SECTION YOU NEED

LS | Leadership & Staffing

LS1 & LS2 Camp Director

The MCA uses staffing titles that may not directly translate to each camp’s staffing outline. The staff titles in the Standards Manual must be understood and interpreted correctly to ensure observance of the standards in light of the individual’s responsibilities and leadership role in the camp context.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CAMP DIRECTOR OR GENERAL MANAGER?

As defined in the Standards Manual, Glossary of Terms, the Camp Director is “the leadership position(s) - individual(s) who offers oversight and/or direction to the function and execution of the camp or program (including oversight of camp site, facilities, staffing, policies, programs, etc.)”. Take a look at your staff job descriptions to determine who your Camp Director or Directors are. It could be one or more people who fulfill this role at your camp.

LS6 Background Checks

MCA Standard, LS6, requires a signed “voluntary disclosure statement attesting that the individual does not have a criminal record” be collected from all staff/volunteers as part of the screening process.

What is a Voluntary Disclosure Statement in declaring no criminal record?

A formal, signed statement, where the individual affirms they have no criminal convictions or outstanding criminal charges. These are common in the vulnerable sector and position of trust employment/volunteer settings.

A Voluntary Disclosure Statement can easily be incorporated with your existing processes. Suggestions:

Create a Voluntary Disclosure Statement document to be completed when completing backchecks and file the signed statement with their back check results
Include the statement as part of your hire contract

BASIC CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK

CRC - Criminal Record Check
PCRC - Police Criminal Record Check
CPIC – Canadian Police Information Centre

The Basic Criminal Record Check is a background check based on name and birth date, run through the Criminal Name Index of the CPIC data system to identify criminal records consisting of one or more criminal conviction in the National Repository managed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Individuals who have a criminal record have been fingerprinted in relation to indictable offences they were charged with. The convictions remain on their record unless they apply for, and obtain, a record suspension (formerly known as a pardon).

ENHANCED CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK

ECRC – Enhanced Criminal Record Check
EPIC – Enhanced Police information Check

In addition to the check systems used for a basic Criminal Record Check, Enhanced Criminal Record Checks also include a search of the Police Information Portal (PIP) for information on additional convictions located outside of the National Repository and judicial matters reported by local police jurisdictions. In addition to criminal convictions, the Enhanced Record Check search systems include charges, warrants, peace bonds, prohibition orders, release conditions, and recent convictions not registered in the National Repository. Information is flagged in accordance with applicable privacy and police information laws. The benefit of the enhanced check is that it includes criminal convictions that did not result in the creation of a criminal record or that may be in addition to a criminal record.

*ECRC & EPIC are the most comprehensive criminal record checks allowed in Canada.

These checks can be completed with quick turnaround through online back check services like First Advantage (Sterling Backcheck)and Triton.

MCA Member Camps receive discounts through CCA. Visit their website for more information.

VULNERABLE SECTOR CHECKS

VSV – Vulnerable Sector Verification (also known as PVSC or VSC) Completed through the Police Service
VSS – Vulnerable Sector Search is completed by the RCMP for rural residence

The Vulnerable Sector Check information is completed through a search of the Pardoned Sex Offender Database and is processed alongside a CRC. This check serves as a base-line background check to ensure applicants are not among the over 15,000 pardoned sex offenders in Canada.

Amendments were made to the Criminal Records Act in 2010 and 2012. As of March 13, 2012, record suspensions (formerly known as pardons) are no longer granted for convictions included in the Pardoned Sex Offender Database. No new names have been added since March 13, 2012. (Sterling Backcheck has verified the youngest person on the registry was born on February 28th, 1986). As a result, there is now (as of the year 2026) no one under the age of 40 on the Pardoned Sex Offender Database. Anyone born after February 28, 1986 will not have been recorded on the Pardoned Sex Offender Database making this type of background check irrelevant for anyone born after this date.

This does not negate the validity of the vulnerable sector check for those whose birthdate qualifies, but it does require discernment as to who is sent for this type of check. Any applicant for the camp setting born on or before February 28, 1986 must have this check done as their primary check. Providing this initial check information is kept on file, future screening measures for the individual do not require a vulnerable sector search.

New Database – High Risk Child Sex Offender Database

A new High Risk Child Sex Offender Database, managed by the RCMP, was launched on December 31, 2024 focusing on high-risk individuals. This database includes any individual who has been convicted of a sexual offence against a child and meets the criteria for inclusion of High-Risk Offender for committing crimes of a sexual nature. Individuals remain on the database as long as they meet the criteria for inclusion as identified in the High Risk Sex Offender Database Act. Learn More

In Manitoba, the information is used to raise awareness about the presence of high-risk offenders in communities across the country.

While this database is not used for background check screening purposes (it is not included in Vulnerable Sector or Criminal Record Searches), it is a publicly accessible database where individuals can complete database searches online. Learn More

As the purpose of the Child Abuse Registry is to protect from abusers, this Manitoba registry contains names of people who have been found to have abused a child in the province. Organizations and employers may access the registry to help determine if a person who will provide care or have unsupervised access to children is known to have been involved in abusing a child.

Individuals are added to the registry if:

Person living in Manitoba is found guilty or pleads guilty to criminal offence involving child abuse.
A Child and Family Services (CFS) Child Abuse Committee (CAC) reviews a case and information from an alleged abuser, and concludes the person abused a child. The CAC reports its conclusions to CFS. After a 60-day appeal period, the CFS director enters that person’s name in the registry.
A family court finds a person has abused a child, the court or a Child and Family Services (CFS) agency provides the information to the director for entry on the registry.

The name remains on the registry for 10 years after last entry or until the victim turns 18 years old, whichever is later.

All names and information on the registry are confidential, not available for public access. Applications for this check can be requested by an employer through the Manitoba Families Child Protection Branch.

LS7 Hiring A Minor

Ensure the following considerations are part of your hiring processes for minors.

Staff application must include minimum requirements – See LS3 for full list.
List includes:
- Name, address, phone number
- Current certifications
- Medical conditions
- Relevant skills

The hire process must include reference checks of a minimum of 2 adult references (at least one not related). (LS6)

Hire paperwork must include a voluntary disclosure statement. (LS6)

Staff contract must include minimum requirements – See LS7 for full list.
List includes:
- Position Held
- Pay, conditions and benefits
- Pay method/timing
- Signature of minor staff member AND signature of parent/guardian

Employee terms and conditions must be provided either in the employment contract or as a staff handbook referred to in the employment contract. (LS8)
Must be at minimum 4 years older than the oldest camper in their cabin if placed in a senior Cabin Leader position. (LS20)

*All hiring measures must satisfy MCA standards requirements, The Human Rights Code, The Employment Standards Code and Insurance requirements.

*Storage of all applications and staff records must meet Insurance requirements and The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

LS11 & LS13 Child Protection

The camp is to ensure the documented Child Protection policy and procedure is reviewed annually and included as part of the staff training provided to staff at the outset of the summer camping season, prior to their commencement of duties.

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY & SITE IMPLEMENTATION

The following aspects are to be considered in child protection policies and site implementation:

Removing access to children for individuals who have previously treated children inappropriately (applying screening procedures and using camper/guardian information in your everyday practices).
Removing or reducing abuse opportunities.
Establishing clear guidelines for appropriate social and relational interactions with children and others at camp, including appropriate touch and relationship guidelines.
Education, training and consistency are crucial in abuse awareness, incorporating abuse disclosure protocols and providing a safe environment for campers if/when a disclosure is made.
In the event of an abuse disclosure, report the disclosure at the earliest possible opportunity, following camp reporting procedures to the Director/Administrator and Child and Family Services (CFS). It is the legal responsibility of anyone who reasonably believes that a child is, or might be, in need of protection from child abuse to report the information to a CFS agency and if deemed appropriate to the parent/guardian.
- “Reason to believe” means that based on the information you have received or what you have observed, your assessment is that the child may be in need of protection or is at risk.
- Be honest with the child regarding your need to report the disclosure, affirming the child’s decision to trust you with the information and keeping the child informed of next steps during the reporting process.
- Make personal notes at the earliest possible time following the conversation, quoting as close as possible important aspects of what the child said - These notes should be as objective as possible, relying on what he/she said as opposed to ‘I know/feel ’ - Such notes are useful in recalling the event if required.
Allow the child to tell their story without probing for more information (avoid leading questions); such probing may interfere with future actions to seek justice.
Confidentiality is about protecting the child! Reporting child abuse to the appropriate people is a part of protecting the child. Telling others outside this group is not appropriate and should not be done under any circumstances

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT

Effective behaviour management strategies focus on proactive approaches, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement to create a safe and engaging environment. The following should be considered when developing behaviour management strategies for the camp setting or camper specific scenarios.

Behaviour management and escalation consequence policies, procedures and guidelines are clearly communicated, available for reference, and followed with consistency.
Staff are educated in behaviour management during staff training, are part of the camp culture, and are reviewed throughout the season to ensure an understanding of age appropriate methods and situations.
- Camp sanctioned behaviour management tools (routines, active supervision and engagement, positive reinforcement, etc.)
- Unacceptable behaviour management tools (e.g. use of physical punishment, shaming, emotional manipulation, inconsistent consequences, labeling the child, etc.)
Behaviour management resources are available at camp and a staff resource person is available for assistance as needed.

MISSING CHILD POLICY CONSIDERATIONS

Camps must ensure diligence in camper safety and ensuring campers are accounted for at all times. In the event of a missing camper, the following elements should be incorporated into your policy and procedures.

Staff education through training and drills
Easy access to policy and procedure document for reference in an emergency
Emergency phone numbers easily accessible in emergency situations
Time protocols - example: time from reported missing camper to initiating camper search
Communication methods and alarms/bell procedures known by all staff and campers
Muster point known by staff and campers
Staff or volunteers serving for short periods of time (ie. weekly volunteer cooks, camp speaker, health officer, etc.) understand procedures and protocols for missing child situations and are equipped to fulfill their responsibilities in these situations
Situation briefing
- Who runs the search and provides briefing
- Information to be communicated about missing camper (name, what they were wearing, last seen location, physical/social/developmental/activity details that may assist in understanding possible location)
Search procedures - teams, site maps, building access, hiding spots, water, forested area, risk awareness, etc.
How to interact with camper when found and possible outcomes
When and who to contact if camper is not found or if emergency situation develops

SO | Site & Operations

SO16 WHMIS

CAMP’S LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY REGARDING WHMIS

Ensure a WHMIS program is in place at the camp
Ensure staff are properly educated and receive site specific training. Training must include labeling and understanding the given information, all things SDS, safely using/storing/handling/disposing of hazardous products, emergency procedures.
Ensure education and training is delivered for established safety and health practices
Ensure that workers comply with education/training/program/procedures

There is no federal or provincial regulation regarding refresher training. Employers are legally required to review their WHMIS program annually and provide retraining when new hazardous products are introduced, safety information is updated or there are changes in workplace procedures.

It is federally recommended that refresher training be completed every 1-3 years.

MCA STANDARDS REQUIREMENT | SO16

Camp has WHMIS program and training program in place and is reviewed by leadership annually.
Camp has documented evidence (certificate) for WHMIS 2015 (GHS) training for Camp Directors and Senior Leaders (ie. maintenance, kitchen, housekeeping, program).
Annual site-specific, in-house WHMIS training for all staff taught by certified staff or qualified external training provider.

REGULATION | VIEW WEBSITE

WHMIS is regulated by the Federal Government through the Canadian Centre of Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). Additionally, WHMIS is also regulated in the workplace by the provinces and territories under their occupational health and safety legislation. It is the province who determines the WHMIS education and training requirements in Manitoba.

CCOHS DEFINITIONS OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING

"EDUCATION refers to general or portable information, such as how WHMIS works and the hazards of the products. For example, you will learn about the hazard classes (e.g., why a product is called a corrosive, and what information you can find on labels and safety data sheets (SDSs)."

"TRAINING refers to the site- and job-specific information that will cover your workplace's procedures for storage, handling, use, disposal, emergencies, spills, and what to do in other situations."

For more information visit the CCOHS website - WHMIS - Is there a difference between WHMIS education and WHMIS training?

EDUCATION & TRAINING SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

"In Canada, any workplace where hazardous products are present must have a WHMIS program. Workers must be educated and trained to understand the hazards and know how to work safely with hazardous products.

"All workers who work with a hazardous product or who may be exposed to a hazardous product as a part of their work activities must learn about the hazard information for these products. The hazard information should include the information received from the supplier and any other information that the employer is aware of about the use, storage, and handling of each product."

(CCOHS website - WHMIS, Who should receive this education and training?)

"All Canadian jurisdictions require that employers develop, implement, and maintain a worker WHMIS education and training program. Workers who work with or may be exposed to hazardous products in the workplace must receive product-specific training..."

(CCOHS website - WHMIS, What are the employer’s duties?)

INFORMATION REGARDING WHO IS TO PROVIDE THE EDUCATION AND TRAINING

“The legislation places the obligation for education and training on the employer (the camp), and it outlines the minimum requirements for education and training. This education and training may be provided by the employer, or by a qualified or competent person or agency that the employer has chosen. Regardless of who delivers the education and training, employers remain legally responsible for ensuring the protection of workers.”

For more information, visit the CCOHS website - WHMIS - Who should provide the education and training?

SO25 Risk Managememnt

The Daily Risk Management Document is a sample tool designed to help camps identify, assess, and manage potential risks on a day-to-day basis. Regular risk assessments are an important part of maintaining a safe environment for campers, staff, and volunteers. This sample document can be adapted to fit your camp’s unique programs, facilities, and operations. Use it as a guide to support proactive decision-making, document safety checks, and demonstrate your commitment to effective risk management practices.

Risk Management Sample

SO28 Staff Training

This Staff Training Sign-Off Sheet is a sample resource designed to help camps document in-house training for staff who operate camp equipment such as tractors, skid steers, riding mowers, golf carts, ATVs, and other motorized equipment. Proper documentation helps demonstrate that staff have received the necessary training prior to operating equipment and understand safe operating procedures. Completed sign-off sheets should be reviewed and signed by a supervisor and retained in the employee’s personnel file as part of the camp’s training records.

Staff Training Sign-Off Sample

HC | Healthcare

HC2 Infection control

This Public Health Handwashing Poster is a simple and effective resource to help promote proper hand hygiene practices at camp. The poster can be displayed in washrooms, cabins, dining areas, health centres, and other high-traffic spaces to encourage healthy habits among campers and staff.

Please note: this resource is provided as supportive information only. Camps are responsible for ensuring they follow all current public health guidelines and regulations applicable to their program, region, and operations.

Handwashing Poster

HC7 Medication Storage

HEALTH OFFICE DOOR
The Health Office door is to be secured by a door lock with key access limited to the Health Officer and designated leadership staff. The Health Office should be locked any time this space is unattended.

MEDICATION STORAGE CABINETS
Any cabinet, drawer or medical box containing medication is to be locked with access limited to Health Officer and designated leadership staff. All medications, including those provided by the camp or submitted by a camper, are to be stored in the same manner.

REFRIGERATED STORAGE
In the same way that medications stored in cabinets need to be stored under lock and key, the same applies to refrigerated medication storage with access limited to the Health Officer and designated leadership staff. As common fridges don’t come with an affixed lock, the camp can choose to either attach their own locking system to the fridge door or use a locked box stored in the fridge for medication storage.

HC8 Health Office

This Health Office Inventory checklist is designed to support camps in maintaining a well-stocked and organized health office that aligns with current MCA standards. The button below provides a downloadable and printable checklist that can be referenced and utilized as a helpful resource when reviewing or restocking your supplies.

Please note: while these checklists currently reflect MCA standards, they are intended as supportive resources only. Camps are responsible for conducting their own research and ensuring their first aid kits meet all applicable standards, regulations, and specific program needs. Health Office set up, contents and management must be in adherence with provincial regulations.

Health Office Inventory list

HC9 Physical Medical Log

The Health Office medical log is used to maintain secure detailed records of all actions taken in relation to the health and first aid needs of individuals (campers, guests, etc.)

PREPARING THE LOGBOOK

Bound Book (perfect or cas binding)
Numbered Pages (pre-printed or hand-written in ink)
All entried must be verified by a signature or initial by the Medical Officer
Cover
- Notice on the cover must read: CONFIDENTIAL - AUTHORIZED STAFF ONLY: For medical Record, reference, and legal
Inside Cover
- The inside cover must have a Medical Officer signature and initial key. This serves as a visual reference for any medical officer who signs an entry in the logbook.

USING THE LOGBOOK

All entries into the logbook must be authorized by a signature or initial from the medical officer on duty
When writing in an entry, there must be NO BLANK LINES between entries.

HC10 First Aid

These first aid kit checklists are designed to support camps in maintaining well-stocked and organized kits that align with current MCA standards. The buttons below provide downloadable and printable checklists that can be referenced and utilized as a helpful resource when reviewing or restocking your supplies.

Please note: while these checklists currently reflect MCA standards, they are intended as supportive resources only. Camps are responsible for conducting their own research and ensuring their first aid kits meet all applicable standards, regulations, and specific program needs.

Day Trip | First Aid Kit

Five Day | First Aid Kit

Pool | First Aid Kit

Waterfront | First Aid Kit

Overnight | First Aid Kit

KF | Kitchen & Foodservice

KF2 Camp Menu

The written camp menu needs to follow good nutrition and healthy, balanced meals. Take a look at the Canada Food Guide and the Dietary Guidelines to ensure your menu meets these standards.

Canada Food Guide

Canada's Dietary Guidelines

KF Extra Resources

The posters below provide helpful kitchen guideline resources that camps are welcome to download, print, and display within their food service areas. These posters are designed to support safe food handling practices, cleanliness, sanitation, and overall kitchen safety awareness for staff and volunteers.

Please note: these posters are intended as reference materials only. Camps are responsible for ensuring that all signage, procedures, and food service practices meet current provincial health regulations and any other applicable local requirements.

Kitchen Reference Poster

Before You Enter Poster

PR | Program

PR13 Inspections

This Sample Inspection Log is provided as a reference tool to help camps document routine inspections of activity infrastructure and equipment. Regular inspections help identify potential hazards, ensure equipment remains in safe working condition, and support a culture of proactive risk management. Camps can adapt this sample log to suit their specific activities and facilities, using it to track required checks, inspection frequencies, maintenance needs, and corrective actions.

Daily Activity Inspection Log

SW | Lifeguards & Swimming

SW3 Waterfront Lifeguard Certification Requirement

Recreational Camps Act Regulation

Duties of operator

4(1) The operator of a recreational camp shall ensure that

(g) a supervisor is in charge of the water-front program, and is in attendance at all times when bathing facilities are in use;

4(2) The supervisor referred to in clause (1)(g) must

(a) be at least 16 years of age;

(b) hold (i) for the years 2024 to 2026, a current Lifesaving Society National Lifeguard Award, or (ii) for the year 2027 and subsequent years, a current Lifesaving Society National Lifeguard Award (Waterfront); and

(c) hold current intermediate level first aid and CPR Level C certification issued by a provider approved by the minister.

In 2027 it will be required of Manitoba Camps that the Waterfront Supervisor (who is in attendance at the waterfront at all times it is in use) must be NL Waterfront certified.

NOTE: If your camp has more than one individual filling the role as Waterfront Supervisor (lifeguards trade off this responsibility), anyone filling this role must be NL Waterfront certified.

SW5 Lifeguard Supervision Considerations

Supervision at a camp pool or waterfront involves layering safety systems so no single incident or mistake becomes an emergency. Along with a mature and site-trained lifeguard team, strong waterfront and poolside supervision involves appropriate staffing, visibility, training and education for all activity participants, policy and procedure implementation, communication methods, and awareness of environmental conditions.

Water supervision considerations for your water safety team:

Staff positioning, scanning and active supervision

Lifeguards are easily recognized - uniform, hat or other visible indication
Establish lifeguard positions for collective, unobstructed sightlines to every swimmer
Cover blind spots around docks, reeds/shoreline vegetation, inflatables, slides, etc.
Rotate scanning positions regularly to reduce fatigue
Use elevated chairs where possible
Guards should practice active scanning, not casual observation
Guards must not be distracted by phones, conversations, paperwork, discipline issues or socializing - lifeguard expectation is “eyes on water”
Buddy-check and head-count systems are to be in place with appropriate sign in and out procedures
Lifeguards must be aware of their physical ability and condition throughout their day.
Prolonged shifts at the water can increase risk for overheating, dehydration, sun exhaustion, and mental fatigue. Proper support, careful scheduling, frequent rotations, hydration and shade are incredibly important to a lifeguard’s personal wellbeing and mental/physical preparedness.

Supervision ratios

Water supervision ratios listed in the standards are a minimum requirement. Considerations for increased ratios include, but are not limited to:
- Swim ability
- Activity type and number of activities taking place at one time
- Water conditions
- Local regulations
- Deep water and distance swims
- Water toys, layout or visual obstructions at the pool/waterfront

Inclusion and behavior considerations
Supervision plans should account for developmental and accessibility needs. These include but are not limited to the following camper water responses:

Overestimate swim ability
Panic
Tendency to wander
Impulsive rule breaking
Disconnect with auditory instructions
Delayed response/reaction time
Physical impairment

Swim ability and zones

Swim tests must be conducted as per standards BEFORE any camper participates in swimming activities.
Camper swimming ability to be clearly, visually identified by lifeguards and supervisors (example - wristband system)
Swim areas are clearly identified according to swim ability zones (shallow/deep end)
Supervisors must be consistent in enforcing zone areas
Swimming boundaries are clearly marked, including visible markings for water zone transitions

Environmental awareness

All lifeguards must receive site specific training for environmental awareness, preparedness and emergency response. Environmental awareness to be considered, but limited to the following:

Weather conditions
Water current or waves
Water temperature
Visibility and sun glare
Storm or lightning risk

SW7, SW14 & SW16 Waterfront Signage

Waterfront signage can include, but is not limited to:

Signage limiting access to the waterfront (open/closed)
Safety rules
Buddy check boards
Supervision signage (ie. No Lifeguard on Duty)
Emergency Information
Diving precautions
First Aid location

SW7 and SW16 require safety rule signage which must meet provincial regulation requirements set out by Manitoba Health in the Recreational Camps Regulation.

SW14 specifies that waterfronts connected to larger bodies of water must ensure additional waterfront signage is in place:

“No Lifeguard on Duty” sign when the waterfront is not supervised
“In Case of Emergency” sign which specifies location information and emergency phone number

For more information reference the Manitoba Coalition for Safer Waters – Waterfront Safety Guidelines | VIEW

SW17 Buddy-Check Policy

At a summer camp setting, buddy-checks are an additional layer to the waterfront safety system.
Active lifeguard supervision and proper swim assessments are still the main defences against drowning.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR WATERFRONT BUDDY-CHECK POLICIES:

Effective and easily recognized buddy pairings

Campers know exactly who their swimming buddy is BEFORE entering the water
Lifeguards have a clear method of tracking buddies and have a record of their name and swimming ability close at hand
Swimming buddies should have similar swim ability and maturity

Clear and consistent Buddy-Check signal

The signal is known by lifeguards, staff and campers - anyone at the waterfront
The signal is clear, consistent and unmistakable every time (defined whistle blast, horn, etc.)
Everyone is educated with the procedure and knows how to respond to the signal (raise hands, find buddy, etc.)

Frequency

Buddy checks are completed on a regular basis (a maximum interval of every 15 minutes)
Additional or more frequent check intervals as deemed appropriate by head lifeguard (for rough water, crowded swim areas, deep water, etc.)

Specified swimming zones

Swim area is separated into zones according to swim ability
Camper’s swimming ability is easily identifiable from outside of the water (example - coloured bracelet system)
Swimming buddies stay within their swimming zone - where buddies are at different swimming ability, they always stay in the zone of the lesser swimming ability

Visual accountability

Through strategic placement, lifeguards are able to collectively see:
- Every swimmer
- Every swimming buddy pair
- Every side/angle of the swim area, docks, rafts, water toys, etc.
Camp staff supervisors (additional to lifeguards) are actively watching and spread appropriately throughout the area
Lifeguards are positioned to minimize glare and maximize coverage - blind spots or overcrowding are resolved immediately

Fast Buddy-Check verification method

Conducted consistently in the same manner each time, calmly and professionally
Numbered buddy tags, buddy boards, and counting methods are used as applicable
Additional staff are used to supervise the buddy sign-in/out board, allowing lifeguards to give their full attention to their lifeguarding duties
Lifeguards have specified roles and work as a team within their designated responsibilities

Site specific training

Lifeguards receive site-specific training and refresher drills throughout the season to ensure they are able to respond to the potential various outcomes of a Buddy-Check
Staff and campers are educated in the Buddy-Check systems as part of their initial introduction to the waterfront
Campers are aware of how to identify the lifeguards and where to find them while at the waterfront
Lifeguard training includes water conditions, weather conditions, water toy use and hazards, natural site and environmental risks (water current, rocks, etc.)
Staff understand how to respond in a waterfront emergency situation (which may or may not involve a missing camper) and assume responsibility of the campers allowing the lifeguards to focus on emergency response procedures

Special circumstances

Lifeguards are prepped for potential special circumstances with considerations to how the buddy check system is adaptable for:
- Neurodivergent campers
- Hearing impairments
- Mobility limitations

Emergency Procedures

Staff and campers understand that lifeguards have final say at the waterfront and offer appropriate respect to lifeguard team
Procedures for missing persons at the waterfront are in place and lifeguards are educated/trained in these systems
Communication is in place for lifeguards to communicate with senior staff in an emergency event
Emergency procedures for various outcomes are practiced and chain of command is understood among the team

TS | Target Shooting

TS2 Equipment Maintenance

This Sample archery inspection checklist is provided as a reference tool to help camps document routine inspections of activity infrastructure and equipment. Regular inspections help identify potential hazards, ensure equipment remains in safe working condition, and support a culture of proactive risk management. Camps can adapt this sample log to suit their specific activities and facilities, using it to track required checks, inspection frequencies, maintenance needs, and corrective actions.

Inspection Check List

TS Archery

WAITING AREA
Minimum of three meters behind the shooting line where campers can sit and observe while shooting is in progress. Benches are recommended for campers who are observing/waiting (MCA Standard TS3, Archery Canada Safety Regulations)

END OF RANGE DEAD SPACE

End of range overshoot safe area where no one is permitted while range is in use (MCA Standard TS5, Archery Canada Safety Regulations).

Recommended 25m from target to end of range with barrier.
50m of dead space behind the range with backdrop in place.
Second barrier required if less than 50m dead space.

SIDE RANGE SAFE ZONES
Minimum 10 meter safe area runs along the sides of the range where no one is permitted while range is in use. Barriers may be required depending on access to range or distractions/activities alongside range. (MCA Standard TS5, - Archery Canada Safety Regulations)

SHOOTING DISTANCE (Shooting line to Target)
The average shooting distance for a camper is 10-15 yards (9-14 metres) from the shooting line

TARGETS
Targets must meet requirements for shooting equipment (MCA Standard TS9), Targets should be set up to avoid visual obstructions from the sun. (Archery Canada Safety Regulations)

SHOOTING LINE
Shooting line must be clearly visible and affixed to ground securely, must not be a tripping hazard, able to move or skew shooting line accuracy. (MCA Standard TS10, Archery Canada Safety Regulations)

REQUIRED SIGNAGE
Range rules & commands, shooting procedures, Range in use signs (MCA Standards TS1, TS8, TS11, Archery Canada Safety Regulations)

Posted Archery Range Rules - SAMPLE

Range Rules:

Proper range conduct requires safety and respect
Listen to and follow instructions - the Range Instructor has final say
Only point loaded bows down range (at the target or at the ground)
Stay behind the shooting line unless signaled by the instructor
Never dry shoot a bow and use only designated arrows
Walk on the range - no running
Use safe practices when carrying arrows or removing arrows from target

Shooting Voice Commands - SAMPLE

Shooters to the line
Pick up your bows
Load and fire when ready
All arrows gone?
Retrieve arrows

Emergency Ceasefire or Unsafe Conditions Voice Command - SAMPLE

Bows down stop shooting, bows down stop shooting, bows down stop shooting, bows down.

CC | Climbing & Courses

CC Climbing & Courses

The button below provides access to a variety of industry resources for climbing organizations, training opportunities, certification courses, and support services. Within each resource, you’ll find contact information, phone numbers, email addresses, and details about how each company or organization may be able to support your camp’s programs, staff training, safety practices, and operational needs. These resources are intended to help camps connect with industry professionals and continue building safe, high-quality adventure programming.

Industry Resources

This chart is intended to serve as a helpful guide to support camps in following industry best practices and maintaining safe, effective operations. It can be used as a quick reference tool to assist with planning, reviewing procedures, and identifying key considerations within your program.

Please note: this chart is provided as supportive information only. Camps are still responsible for reviewing the applicable standards manual, provincial requirements, and any other governing regulations to ensure full compliance within their specific operations and jurisdiction.

Training Chart

CC2 Wall/Rock Climbing

This Belayer Training Guide is a sample resource to help camps develop and document a comprehensive training program for individuals responsible for belaying. The guide is intended to support safe climbing operations by outlining key skills, knowledge, and procedures that belayers should demonstrate before belaying independently. Camps can adapt this resource to fit their specific climbing programs and use it to help document initial training as well as retesting requirements for belayers who have not actively participated in belaying for three months or longer.

Generic Belay Training

CC8 Bouldering

BOULDERING DEFINITIONS

Spotter | The individual guiding the climber safely to the ground
Padding (*Also known as bouldering mat or crashpad) | A padded or soft landing at the base of the bouldering wall climbing zone to cushion the landing of a climber’s fall

BEFORE YOU START CLIMBING

Have you completed your wall inspection?
Is there a clearly visible one-meter line marked on the climbing wall for reference?
Does your padding extend along the length of the climbing zone?
Is there a spotter in place for each climber on the wall?
Is your rule board in place?

APPROPRIATE PADDING

Each bouldering context is unique, so the padding at the base of the wall needs to meet the needs of the climbing context.

Some examples include:

Indoor bouldering walls - Thick or multilayered cushioned mats (crash pads or bouldering mat).
Basic outdoor bouldering walls - Bouldering mats or a loose-fill material rated for outdoor playgrounds, like shredded rubber or sand, are appropriate for these contexts. A single gym mat moved along as the climber moves offers additional absorption for a fall.

Eliminate Gaps

If you are using smaller crash pads, overlap the pads or use slider pads to fill any cracks

Proper Climbing Zone
The landing surface at the base of a bouldering wall should extend at minimum 6-8 feet outward from the base of the wall.

Weather Considerations
Outdoor bouldering walls must be able to withstand the elements it is exposed to. Landing pads must be water-resistant and easily stored in a dry location to prevent mould and foam degradation. The surface of the wall must be dry when in use and hand holds rated for outdoor use and inspected regularly.

Signage
All walls, both indoor and outdoor locations, must have proper signage indicating rules and proper use and a no-climbing sign when not in use.