At the YMCA, the safety and well-being of every child in our care is always our top priority, especially during extreme summer temperatures. With temperatures expected to climb in this final week of July, our YMCA Overnight and Day Camp teams across the Triangle are taking thoughtful steps to adapt and respond.
From outdoor games to water play, day camp is designed to keep kids moving, learning and connecting. But when the heat index rises, so does our responsibility to make smart, timely adjustments that protect campers and staff.
Keeping Kids Cool and Hydrated
YMCA Camp teams are trained to respond to heat-related risks and implement weather-safe schedules. This week, many of our sites are:
- Building in more frequent water breaks and encouraging hydration throughout the day, not just during meals or after high activity.
- Increasing water-based play and swimming opportunities where available and helping campers stay active while cooling off.
- Shifting activities to shaded areas or indoors whenever possible, especially during peak heat hours.
- Adding pop-up shade tents or canopies for outdoor areas that lack natural cover.
- Modifying high-exertion activities to minimize overheating and promote rest when needed.
These strategies reflect our staff’s deep commitment to keeping campers not only engaged but safe.
Partnering with Families for Safety
While camp safety starts with us, families also play an important role. We encourage caregivers to prepare their child before day camp each day with basic heat protection in mind. That includes:
- A frozen or chilled water bottle (or two!)
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- An insulated lunch box with cold packs
- A hat for sun protection
- Sunscreen applied before arrival (we encourage campers to reapply throughout the day).
Parents and guardians are also asked to inform staff of any health concerns that could increase a child’s sensitivity to heat.
Our Commitment, Rain or Shine
Our Y camps are about more than summer fun. They are about building confidence, character and connection in a safe, supportive environment. When temperatures spike, our job is to adjust without sacrificing the spirit of camp. We’re proud of our staff for rising to the challenge and grateful to the families and communities who trust us each summer.
Extreme weather won’t stop us from delivering a meaningful, memorable experience. It just means we lead with even more care, creativity and caution.
