Hingham Health Department: Do Your Research On Summer Camps

HINGHAM, MA — The Hingham Board of Health is advising those looking to send their children to summer camp to research the camp's license. Every camp that is licensed in Massachusetts has a site inspection and is required to submit written plans for camp procedures.

Among the inspections points in Hingham are:

• Background review of staff and volunteers
• A camp health care policy including allergy awareness and emergency care
• A disaster/emergency plan including a fire evacuation plan and storm shelter
• The correct staff/camper ratio with the proper credentials on all positions such as a certified lifeguard if there is a pool

The Hingham Health Department serves as a delegate of the Mass Department of Public Health in enforcing licensing for recreational camps for children. The purpose of this law is to provide minimum standards for housing, health, safety and sanitary conditions for minors attending recreational camps.

No recreational camp for children shall operate without a license from the Board of Health. The length of time a camp is in session and the type of entity operating a program determines whether a program is considered a camp.

Residents are encouraged to call Kathy Crowley, PHN at 781-741-1466 for a complete list of licensed recreational camps in Hingham. Residents can also contact the camp director and ask for a copy of its policies regarding staff background checks, as well as health care and disciplinary procedures.