What a safe and wonderful summer we just experienced 🙂
At CKC, we work hard to create a safe and fun environment in which our campers can thrive.
We have decades of experience and an exceptional safety record. We train our adventure staffs with Wilderness First Aid, Whitewater Rescue, Lifeguarding, CPR, and Red Cross First Aid. Great growth happens when children are challenged in the beauty of the Mountains. While the “wild” is part of the magic, the safety of your child is our non-negotiable priority.
Preparation & Training Before a single camper steps onto the property, our staff undergoes intensive safety training. We conduct regular drills for fire, severe weather, and missing persons so that our response is “muscle memory.”
Common Regional Scenarios Living in the “Land of Waterfalls” means we are practiced in managing the elements:
- Summer Storms: We monitor radar 24/7. When there is lightning, campers on campus are moved into permanent, grounded structures. Staff leading trips off-campus receive training in finding the safest areas or shelters.
- Flooding & Heavy Rain: While the Brevard area receives significant rainfall, our property is naturally situated on high ground and is not located within a flood plain. We remain vigilant during heavy rains, particularly for our off-site wilderness trips, where staff are trained to avoid low-lying areas and follow high-ground protocols.
- Power Outages: We are fully prepared to operate “off-grid,” should we ever be called upon to do so, with backup systems for food service and medical refrigeration.
- Medical Emergencies: In the rare event of a serious injury, our staff provides immediate first aid and coordinates with our medical team and local EMS. Professional help is only minutes away from our campus in Brevard.
Emergency Communication: “First, Fast, Fact” In the event of a significant emergency (weather evacuation, property damage, or a localized threat), we follow a strict communication protocol:
- Safety First: Our first priority is moving campers to a secure location using our transportation fleet.
- Initial Alert: Once campers are secure, we will send an immediate email blast to all parents. This message will be brief and focus on the immediate safety status of the camp.
- Detailed Updates: As more information becomes available, we will provide updates via email and/or our official social media channels.
The “Help Us Help Them” Protocol In a crisis, we ask that parents follow these guidelines to ensure our response remains effective:
- Please Do Not Call the Main Office: Tied-up phone lines can hinder our coordination with local authorities and emergency services.
- Please Do Not Drive to Camp: In the event of an evacuation or wildfire, the narrow roads of Brevard must remain clear for emergency vehicles and camp buses.
- Trust the System: We will contact you directly if your specific child is involved in a medical or personal incident.
A Note on Peace of Mind: We treat your children as our own. Our goal is always to return them to you with a few more stories, a little more dirt on their boots, and a deeper sense of resilience.
🛡️ Our Commitment to Safety: A Guide for Parents
Camps Kahdalea & Chosatonga
At Kahdalea and Chosatonga, we believe the greatest growth happens when children are challenged in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. While the “wild” is part of the magic, the safety of your child is our non-negotiable priority. This document outlines how we prepare for, respond to, and communicate during emergencies.
1. Preparation & Training
Before a single camper steps onto property, our staff undergoes extensive safety training.
- Drills: Just like at school, we conduct regular drills for fire, severe weather, and missing persons so that our response is “muscle memory” rather than panic.
- Expertise: Our wilderness trips are led by staff trained in Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or First Responder (WFR) protocols.
- Proven Track Record: We have an exceptional safety record and decades of experience.
2. How We Will Communicate With You
In the event of a significant emergency (weather evacuation, property damage, or a localized threat), we follow a “First, Fast, Fact” communication protocol:
- Safety First: Our first priority is moving campers to a secure location.
- Initial Alert: Once campers are secure, we will send an immediate Email Blast to all parents. This message will be brief and focus on the immediate safety status of the camp.
- Detailed Updates: As more information becomes available, we will provide updates via email and/or our official social media channels.
3. The “Help Us Help Them” Protocol
In a crisis, the camp’s phone lines must remain open for emergency services. We ask that you follow these guidelines:
- Please Do Not Call the Main Office: We know it’s tempting, but tied-up phone lines can hinder our coordination with local authorities.
- Please Do Not Drive to Camp: In the event of an evacuation or wildfire, the narrow roads of Brevard must remain clear for emergency vehicles and camp buses.
- Trust the System: We will contact you directly if your specific child is involved in a medical or personal incident.
4. Common Regional Scenarios
Living in the “Land of Waterfalls” means we are experts in managing the elements:
- Summer Storms: We monitor radar 24/7. At the first sign of lightning or high winds, campers are moved into permanent, grounded structures.
- Flash Flooding: Our property is mapped for high-ground muster points. We have designated “safe zones” well above the flood plains of local creeks.
- Power Outages: We are fully prepared to operate “off-grid” for extended periods, with backup systems for food service and medical refrigeration.
A Note on Peace of Mind:
We treat your children as our own. Our goal is always to return them to you with a few more stories, a little more dirt on their boots, and a deeper sense of resilience.