CAMP GAN ISRAEL NATICK / METROWEST

159 Boden Lane, Natick, MA 01760 Summer 2026

HEALTH CARE POLICY

(Compliant with 105 CMR 430)

Emergency Telephone Numbers
Procedures for Emergencies & Illness
Plan for Injury Prevention
Assessing Injuries to Children in Care
Plan for Managing Infectious Disease
Plan for Infection Control
Procedures for Using and Maintaining First Aid Equipment
Plan for Administration of Medication
Plan for Mildly Ill Children
Plan for Meeting Individual Children's Specific Health Needs
Procedure for Identifying and Reporting Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect
Emergency Evacuation Plan & Lost Camper Plan (On Premises)
Traffic Control & Attendance Plan
Off-Site Swimming & Lost Swimmer Plan
Day Camp Contingency Plan
Background Check Policy
Unauthorized Persons Protocol
Food & Nutrition Policy

1. EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Health Care Consultant Name: Laura Black Address: 6 Ranger Road Telephone Number: 508-380-6366

Emergency Telephone Numbers (to be posted by all telephones)

Fire Department: 911 or (508) 651-7294
Police Department: 911 or 508-647-9500
Poison Control: 800-222-1222
Ambulance: 911
DSS/Child Abuse (DCF Framingham Area): 508-424-0100
Public Health Dept (Natick): 508-647-6460
Designated Adult / Camp Director: Batya Azoulay – 718-501-1650

Hospital(s) Utilized for Emergencies

Name: Metrowest Medical Center Address: 115 Lincoln Street, Framingham, MA 01702 Telephone: (508) 383-1000
Name: Newton Wellesley Hospital Address: 2014 Washington St, Newton, MA 02462 Telephone: (617) 243-6000
Name: Urgent Care Clinic (if we may) - Natick Urgent Care Address: 4 Mercer Rd, Natick, MA 01760 Phone: (508) 318-4466

Information to Give in an Emergency

Your Name
The Nature for the Emergency
The Center's Telephone Number - 508-650-1499
The Center's Address - 159 Boden Lane, Natick, MA
The Center's Location in the Building - come through the front door, you will find us.

2. PROCEDURES FOR EMERGENCIES AND ILLNESS

(Parents must receive a copy of these procedures.)

First Aid and Transportation to the Hospital

In the case of an emergency or illness (such as a seizure, a serious fall or serious cut), the trained staff in charge will begin administration of emergency first aid while the assistant staff or second staff takes other children to another area or room. Both staff members should respond in a calm and reasonable manner.
Other staff will be alerted to send for assistance, be it the Program Director, health care supervisor, or another supervisory person in the center.
One of the supervisory staff will contact the parent to come and pick up child or, if response time is a factor, to have the parent meet the child and accompanying staff at the emergency room of the hospital utilized in emergencies.
In the event a situation arises that is life threatening or the child cannot be comfortably restrained in a car, an ambulance will be called immediately. The parent will be called to meet the child and staff at the hospital. The current staff or other designated staff will go with the child in the ambulance. The child's file will be taken, including permission forms and pertinent insurance information if the center has it.
If the emergency is non-life threatening and the child is transported to the hospital by the Center, one of the staff will drive and another staff will be accompanying the child for comfort. The child will be properly restrained in a car seat and in a seat belt. The child will not be carried on the staff member's lap.
If the parent comes to pick up the child and needs assistance, the staff or program director may offer to drive to the hospital or to accompany the child.
When parents cannot be reached, those listed as emergency contacts will be called as a further attempt to reach parents. In the event a parent cannot be reached immediately, a designated staff person will continue to attempt to reach parents. If necessary, the child will be transported to the hospital by two designated staff members (or by ambulance) and the child's whole file will be taken, including permission forms.

The program will immediately report to the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) and the Board of Health any injury to, or illness of, any child which occurs during the hours while the child is enrolled in care and which requires hospitalization or emergency medical treatment.

Emergencies While on a Camp Trip If an accident or acute illness occurs while on a camp trip, the staff will immediately notify the health care supervisor. The health care supervisor will take charge of the emergency, assess the situation, and direct the staff what to do, along with giving first aid as needed. The method and urgency of transportation for the child to receive medical treatment will be determined by the health care supervisor based on the severity of the emergency or illness. If necessary, an ambulance will be called. The camp director, or other designated adult, will be contacted by the health care supervisor as soon as possible and informed of the nature and extent of the injury and the proposed plan of action. As a preventive measure, prior to departure from the center, the camp director, health care supervisor and all staff will determine appropriate guidelines to be followed during the camp trip to insure continuity and safety of the children including:

A first aid kit will be taken in all vehicles on all field trips.
Emergency information, including contacts and telephone numbers, will be taken on all field trips.
On a camp trip, staff must know the location of a telephone and have appropriate change to be able to use it or have a working cell phone available.

3. PLAN FOR INJURY PREVENTION

To prevent injury and to ensure a safe environment, the staff member who opens each classroom/bunkroom is responsible upon arrival each day for monitoring the environment and for the removal of any hazards. Any needed repairs or unsafe conditions should be reported to the Director. The Camp Director will monitor the outdoor playground and remove any hazards prior to any children using the space.

No smoking is allowed on the premises.
Toxic substances, sharp objects, matches and other hazardous objects will be stored out of the reach of children.
A first aid kit and emergency contacts and telephone numbers for the children will be taken on all Camp trips.
An injury report for any incident which requires first aid or emergency care will be maintained in the child's file. The injury report includes the name of the child, date, time and location of accident or injury, description of injury and how it occurred, name(s) of witnesses, name(s) of person(s) who administered first aid and first aid required.

Staff should use the Accident/Injury Report Form to record the above information. Staff should submit the completed form to the Camp Director for review. Once the Camp Director has reviewed the Accident/Injury Report form and has signed it, it should be given to the parent. The parent should be allowed to review it, sign it, and then be given a copy. The staff member should then log the report in the Central Log of Injuries and then file the report in the Child's file. Only staff who have a current First Aid will be allowed to administer first aid no matter how minor the injury.

4. ASSESSING INJURIES TO CHILDREN IN CARE

According to the National Safety Council, injuries are the #1 health and safety problem for children in child care settings. When a child is injured, child care providers need to fully assess the child's injury and make sure they are following their first aid procedures. In addition to following proper first aid protocols, these additional procedures must be followed when a child needs first aid: When an injury occurs, ask the child questions and observe to make sure the child is okay. Monitor the child throughout the day. Continue to assess the child's injury to make sure what was first observed and treated is still the appropriate course of action.

NOTE: Anytime you believe the child's life may be at risk, or you believe there is a risk of permanent injury, seek immediate medical treatment. After first aid is administered and the child is calm, the administrator or a teacher should survey the scene and gather additional information.

What was the child doing?
What equipment was involved?
Was another child involved?
Were any hazards involved?
Were there any witnesses? What did they see?

Procedures that must be followed:

Complete an injury report.
Provide timely, full, and accurate verbal notification to parent/guardian regarding injury.
Do not perform first aid or CPR without having completed current training.
Regularly review the program's health care policy with staff.
Program staff must share all pertinent information with the program administrator and any teacher taking over care. Sharing the child's status with the parent/guardian at pick up time.
Make sure the location of the child's medical information is complete and accessible to staff.

Procedures To Follow In Urgent Emergency Medical Situations:

Administer First Aid and CPR to the child as deemed necessary based on the nature of the emergency.
Call emergency medical services right away. 911
After EMS or emergency medical services have been contacted, call the child's legal guardian.
Take child's medical information and emergency consents to doctors' office or emergency room.

What You Should Do:

Know how to access Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in your area.
Educate Staff on the recognition of an emergency and the center's health care policy.
Know the phone number for each child's guardian and primary health care provider.
Share specific plans and specific health care needs of children with direct care staff.
Develop plans for children with special needs with their family and health care provider.

5. PLAN FOR MANAGING INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Staff will take extra special precautions when children who are ill are diagnosed at the Center and when children who are mildly ill remain at the Center. Children who exhibit symptoms of the following types of infectious diseases, such as gastro-intestinal, respiratory and skin or direct contact infections, may be excluded from the Center if it is determined that any of the following exist:

The illness prevents the child from participating in the program activities or from resting comfortably;
The illness results in greater care need that the child care staff can provide without compromising the health and safety of the other children;
The child has any of the following conditions: fever, unusual lethargy, irritability, persistent crying, difficult breathing, or other signs of serious illness;
Diarrhea;
Vomiting two or more times in the previous 24 hours at home or once at the center;
Mouth sores, unless the physician states that the child is non-infectious;
Rash with a fever or behavior change until the physician has determined that the illness is not a communicable disease;
Purulent conjunctivitis (defined as pink or red conductive with white or yellow discharge, often with matted eyelids) until examined by a physician and approved for re-admission, with or without treatment;
Tuberculosis, until the child in non-infectious;
Impetigo, until 24 hours after treatment has started or all the sores are covered;
Head lice, free of all nits or scabies and free of all mites;
Strep infection, until 24 hours after treatment and the child has been without fever for 24 hours;
Many types of hepatitis are caused by viruses. The symptoms are so alike that blood tests are needed to tell them apart. In the U.S. the most common types of hepatitis are A, B, and C. Types B and C are spread through blood and other body fluids. Type A is spread through contaminated food and water or stool (feces). Fact sheets are available from the state Department of Public health. www.state.ma.us/dph;
Chicken pox, until last blister has healed over.

A child who has been excluded from child care may return after being evaluated by a physician, physician's assistant or nurse practitioner, and it has been determined that he/she is considered to pose no serious health risk to him or her or to the other children. Nevertheless, Camp Gan Israel Natick / Metrowest may make the final decision concerning the inclusion or exclusion of the child. If a child has already been admitted to the Center and shows signs of illness (for example: a fever equal to or greater than 100.5 degrees by the oral or auxiliary route, a rash, reduced activity level, diarrhea, etc.), he/she will be offered a mat, or other comfortable spot in which to lie down. If the child manifests any of the symptoms requiring exclusion (as listed above) or it is determined that it is in the best interests of the child that he/she be taken home, his/her parent will be contacted immediately and asked to pick the child up as soon as possible.

When a communicable disease has been introduced into the Center, parents will be notified immediately, and in writing by the Camp Director. Whenever possible, information regarding the communicable disease shall be made available to parents. Program Directors shall consult the Child Care Health Manual for such information. DPH must be contacted when there is a reportable communicable disease in your program.

The program requires, on admission, a physician's certificate that each child has been successfully immunized in accordance with the Department of Public Health's recommended schedule. No child shall be required to have any such immunization if his parent(s) object, in writing, on the grounds that it conflicts with their religious beliefs or if the child's physician submits documentation that such a procedure is contradicted. This must be maintained in the child's file. No child will be admitted into the program without the required documentation for immunizations. (Childhood Lead screening must be done on all children; it is not considered an immunization). The program will maintain a list of the children who have documented exemptions from immunizations and these children will be excluded from attending when a vaccine preventable disease is introduced into the program. The Massachusetts Immunization Program provides free childhood vaccines.

6. PLAN FOR INFECTION CONTROL

The camp director shall ensure that staff and children wash their hands with liquid soap and running water using friction. Hands shall be dried with individual or disposable towels.

Staff and children shall wash their hands minimally at the following times:

Before eating or handling food; a. After toileting; b. After coming into contact with bodily fluids and discharges; c. After handling center animals or their equipment; and d. After cleaning.

The Camp Director and all staff shall ensure that the specific equipment, items or surfaces are washed with soap and water and disinfected with a fresh, standard bleach solution (1/4 teaspoon per 1 qt.) using the following schedule:

After each use: a. Sinks and faucets used for hand washing after the sink is used for rinsing a toilet training chair; b. Toys mouthed by children; c. Mops used for cleaning bodily fluids; and d. Thermometers.
At least daily: a. Toilets and toilet seats; b. Sinks and sink faucets; c. Drinking fountains; d. Water table and water play equipment; e. Play tables; f. Smooth surfaced non-porous floors; g. Mop used for cleaning; and h. Cloth washcloths and towels.
At least monthly or more frequently as needed to maintain cleanliness, when wet or soiled, and before use by another child: a. Cots, mats or other approved sleeping equipment; b. Sheets, blankets or other coverings; and c. Machine washable fabric toys.

All staff should wear non-latex gloves when they come into contact with blood or body fluids. Specifically, gloves should be worn during diapering, toileting, when administering first aid for a cut, bleeding wound, or a bloody nose. Gloves should never be reused and should be changed between children being handled. Proper disposal of infectious materials is required. Any disposable materials that contain liquid, semi-liquid, or dry, caked blood will need to be disposed of in the secured trash receptacle located in the janitor's closet and marked "Biohazardous waste." The bags should be removed and securely tied each time the receptacle is emptied. Cloth items that come into contact with blood or bodily fluids will be double bagged and sent home. Each staff member will be trained in the above Infection Control Procedures upon employment and before working with the children and then annually.

7. PROCEDURES FOR USING AND MAINTAINING FIRST AID EQUIPMENT

Location of first aid kit - Each floor level will have a first aid kit.

Top floor - in staff supply room
Main floor - above cubbies on shelf above coat rack
Lower level - in supply room in first black cabinet

The location will be marked by a "1st Aid" sign on the front of the container. The first aid kits are stored out of the reach of children but easily accessible in case of emergency. Portable first aid kits used on field trips will include: first aid supplies, children's emergency contacts and telephone numbers.

Who maintains the first aid kit? The first aid kit is kept supplied by the Camp director. First aid kits will be inspected per session by the health care consultants and supplies will be replaced as needed. Staff should report missing items to the Camp director. Staff certified in first aid and in accordance with recommended procedures will use all first aid supplies and/or equipment. All staff must be first aid certified within six (6) months of employment. One staff member certified in CPR must be on the premises during all hours of operation.

Contents of first aid kit: Band-Aids, CPR mouth guard, Disposable non-latex gloves, Gauze Pads, Gauze Roller, Bandage Adhesive Tape, Instant Cold Pack, Tweezers, Thermometer, Compress, Scissors.

8. PLAN FOR ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION

Staff Administering Medication Only staff who took the medication training will be allowed to administer the medication.

Prescription Medication A. Prescription medication must be brought to school in its original container and include the child's name, the name of the medication, the dosage, the number of times per and the number of days the medication is to be administered. This prescription label will be accepted as the written authorization of the physician. B. The Center will not administer any medication contrary to the directions on the label unless so authorized by written order of the child's physician. C. Prescription medication must be provided by the parents - and... D. The parent must fill out the Authorization For Medication Form before the medication can be administered.

Non-prescription Medication A. Non-prescription medication will be given only with written consent of the child's physician. The Center will accept a signed statement from the physician listing the medication(s), the dosage and criteria for its administration. This statement will be valid for one year from the date that it was signed. B. Along with the written consent of the physician, the Center will also need written parental authorization. The parent must fill out the Authorization for Medication form, which allows the Center to administer the nonprescription medication in accordance with the written order of the physician. The statement will be valid for one year from the date it was signed. C. The Center will make every attempt to contact the parent prior to be child receiving the non-prescription medication unless the child needs medication urgently or when contacting the parent will delay appropriate care unreasonably.

Topical Ointments and Sprays A. Topical ointments and sprays such as petroleum jelly, sunscreen, and bug spray, etc. will be administered to the child with written parental permission. The signed statement from the parent will be valid for one year and include a list of topical non-prescription medication. B. When topical ointments and sprays are applied to wounds, rashes, or broken skin, the Center will follow its written procedure for nonprescription medication which includes the written order of the physician, which is valid for a year, and the Authorization for Medication form signed by the parent.

All Medications

The first dosage must be administered by the parent at home in case of an allergic reaction.
All medications must be given to the teacher directly by the parent.
All medications will stored in the downstairs storage room, out of the reach of children (in the right upper cabinet or on the refrigerator door shelf if refrigeration is necessary). All medications that are considered controlled substances must be locked and kept out of reach of children.
The Camp Director will be responsible for the administration of medication. In his/her absence, the Program Director will be responsible.
The Center will maintain a written record of the administration of any medication (excluding topical ointments and sprays applied to normal skin) which will include the child's name, the time and date of each administration, the dosage, and the name of the staff person administering the medication. This completed record will become part of the child's file.
All unused medication will be returned to the parent.

9. PLAN FOR MILDLY ILL CHILDREN

Children who are mildly ill may remain in camp if they are not contagious (refer to Plan For Infectious Disease) and they can participate in the daily program including outside time. If a child's condition worsens or, if it is determined that the child poses a threat to the health of the other children, or if the child cannot be cared for by the classroom staff, the camp director will contact the child's parent(s). The parent(s) will be asked to pick up the child. The child will be cared for in a quiet area, a classroom or in the Center's office by a qualified staff member or by the Program Director until the parent(s) arrive to take the child home. Any toys, blankets, or mats used by an ill child will be cleaned and disinfected before being used by other children.

10. PLAN FOR MEETING INDIVIDUAL CHILDREN'S SPECIFIC HEALTH NEEDS

During intake, parents will be asked to record any known allergies on the face sheet. The face sheet will be updated yearly. All allergies or other important medical information will be posted in each classroom, on the refrigerator in the kitchen, and on the snack storage cabinet. Allergies list will be updated as necessary - new children enroll, unknown allergies become known. All staff and substitutes will be kept informed by the Program Director so that children can be protected from exposure to foods, chemicals, pets or other materials to which they are allergic. For a child with specific food allergies, the cook will inform the classroom staff of substitutions for snacks and lunches when completing weekly snack and lunch menus. The names of children with allergies that may be life threatening (ie - bee stings) will be posted in conspicuous locations with specific instructions if an occurrence were to happen. The Camp Director will be responsible for making sure that staff receives appropriate training to handle emergency allergic reactions.

11. PROCEDURE FOR IDENTIFYING AND REPORTING SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

All staff members are mandated reporters according to Massachusetts General Law C119, Section 51A. This means that if a staff member has a reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect of a child he/she must file a report with the Department of Children and Families.

The following procedure will be followed:

A staff member who suspects abuse or neglect must document her observations including the child's name, date, time, child's injuries, child's behavior, and any other pertinent information. The staff member will discuss this information with the Camp Director.
The Camp Director or the staff member with the assistance of the Camp Director will make a verbal report to DCF, to be followed by a required written report 51A within 48 hours. Department of Children and Families Telephone # is 508-424-0100.
If a staff member feels that an incident should be reported to DCF, and the Camp Director disagrees, the staff member may report to DCF directly.
All concerns of suspected abuse and neglect that are reported to DCF will be communicated to the parents by the Camp Director unless such a report is contra-indicated.

Procedure for Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse/Neglect While in the Care of the Center: It is the Center's commitment to protect all children in care from abuse and neglect. The following are procedures for reporting suspected child abuse/neglect while the child is in the Center's care. Any report of suspected abuse or neglect of a child will be immediately reported to the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Early Education and Care. A meeting will be held with the staff member in question to inform him/her of the filed report.

Department of Children and Families (DCF) telephone # is 508-424-0100. Department of Early Education and Care - Group and School Age Licensing Specialist - 508-461-1453.

The staff member in question will be immediately suspended from the program with pay pending the outcome of the DCF and EEC investigations. If the report is screened out by DCF, the Camp Director has the option of having the staff member remain on suspension pending the EEC investigation or allowing the staff member to return to the classroom. This decision will be made by the Camp Director and will be based on the seriousness of the allegations and the facts available. If the allegations of abuse and neglect are substantiated, it will be the decision of the Camp Director whether or not the staff member will be reinstated. The Camp Director and staff will cooperate fully with all investigations.

12. EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN

1. Purpose and Scope This plan outlines procedures for managing emergencies at Camp Gan Israel Natick / Metrowest. It includes protocols for missing children, fire evacuation, natural disasters, and other critical situations. The goal is to ensure the safety of children, staff, and visitors while complying with MA EEC regulations.

LOST CAMPER PLAN (ON PREMISES)

Compliance: 105 CMR 430.210(C)

2. Missing Children

Any staff member who suspects a child is missing must immediately notify the Camp Director via walkie-talkie/phone with the code: "Missing Camper - [Name]". Counselors immediately freeze their groups and take attendance. Available staff check high-probability areas: bathrooms, playground structures, lobby, and office and cameras.
Notify Director: The Camp Director is alerted immediately and coordinates the search efforts. The Camp Director secures all exits
Contact Authorities: If the child is not found within 5 minutes, the Camp Director will contact local police to report the child missing.
Inform Parents: Parents/guardians will be notified immediately once the child is reported missing.
Documentation: Record the details of the incident, including time, descriptions, and steps taken.

3. Evacuation Due to Fire

Alarm Activation: Activate the fire alarm system immediately.
Prepare to take along: Grab emergency kits which include children's emergency contact information.
Evacuation Routes: Use the designated primary and secondary evacuation routes, clearly marked in each room.
Assembly Points: First assembly spot is in front of the building, at the front of the fence of the outdoor play area. If we need to move on, all staff and children will go to the Cole Recreation Center (179 Boden Lane) walking distance, or, if going farther away is needed, the Cole Recreation Center has vehicles available to transport everyone to the next point which would be the Natick Fire Department on Speen Street. If considered safe, moving over to the Fogelman home at 168 Boden Lane is also an option.
Roll Call: Conduct a name to face headcount at the 1st assembly point to ensure all individuals are accounted for.
Contact Fire Department: Call 911 to report the fire and provide details about the location and status of individuals.
Parent Notification: Inform parents/guardians of the evacuation and assembly location via phone, text, whats app, or email.

4. Evacuation Due to Natural Disaster

Information Source: Monitor local news, weather alerts, and notifications from the local emergency management office to determine if evacuation or shelter-in-place is necessary.
Decision Making: The Camp Director will assess the situation and make a decision based on the severity of the disaster and guidance from local authorities.
Evacuation Routes: First assembly spot is in front of the building, at the front of the fence of the outdoor play area. If we need to move on, all staff and children will go to the Cole Recreation Center (179 Boden Lane) walking distance, or, if going farther away is needed, the Cole Recreation Center has vehicles available to transport everyone to the next point which would be the Natick Fire Department on Speen Street. If considered safe, moving over to the Fogelman home at 168 Boden Lane is also an option.
Prepare to take along: Grab emergency kits which include children's emergency contact information.
Shelter-in-Place: If advised, move to an interior room or designated safe area within the facility - such areas can be closet in sanctuary, under stairs downstairs, upstairs in the staff supply room, and hallway upstairs.
Contact Authorities: Use emergency services (911) to report any immediate threats or concerns.
Parent Communication: Update parents/guardians with information about the situation and location via phone, text, whats app, or email.

5. Loss of Power

Safety Checks: Ensure that emergency lighting and exit signs are operational.
Evacuation: If the power outage lasts more than 30 minutes or compromises safety, evacuate. First assembly spot is in front of the building, at the front of the fence of the outdoor play area. If we need to move on, all staff and children will go to the Cole Recreation Center (179 Boden Lane) walking distance, or, if going farther away is needed, the Cole Recreation Center has vehicles available to transport everyone to the next point which would be the Natick Fire Department on Speen Street. If considered safe, moving over to the Fogelman home at 168 Boden Lane is also an option.
If evacuating, prepare to take along: Grab emergency kits which include children's emergency contact information.
Backup Power: Utilize any available backup power sources (e.g., generators).
Contact Authorities: Report the power outage to the utility company and local emergency services if needed.
Parent Notification: Inform parents/guardians of the situation and any changes in pick-up arrangements via phone, text, whats app, or email.

6. Loss of Heat

Temperature Monitoring: Regularly check indoor temperatures. If it drops below 65°F, initiate heating measures or prepare for evacuation.
Evacuation: First assembly spot is in front of the building, at the front of the fence of the outdoor play area. If we need to move on, all staff and children will go to the Cole Recreation Center (179 Boden Lane) walking distance, or, if going farther away is needed, the Cole Recreation Center has vehicles available to transport everyone to the next point which would be the Natick Fire Department on Speen Street. If considered safe, moving over to the Fogelman home at 168 Boden Lane is also an option.
Contact Authorities: Notify local utilities and emergency services for assistance with heating issues.
Parent Notification: Communicate with parents/guardians about the situation and evacuation plans via phone, text, whats app, or email.

7. Loss of Hot Water

Assess Impact: Evaluate the extent of the impact on program activities. If hot water is essential for health and safety, initiate evacuation.
Alternative Arrangements: Use alternative facilities or arrange for access to hot water if possible.
Contact Authorities: Report the issue to the facility management or maintenance team.
Parent Notification: Inform parents/guardians of any changes or impacts on the program via phone, text, or email.

8. Communication with Authorities and Parents

Contacting Authorities: Use 911 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact local utility companies or emergency management offices as needed.
Parent Communication: Utilize a phone tree, text messaging service, or email notifications to keep parents informed. Ensure contact details are up-to-date for all families.

9. Staff Training and Drills

Training: All staff will receive regular training on emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and communication protocols.
Drills: Conduct regular emergency drills to ensure staff and children are familiar with procedures.

10. Review and Updates

Plan Review: The emergency evacuation plan will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect changes in the facility or regulations.
This plan ensures that Camp Gan Israel Natick / Metrowest is prepared to handle emergencies effectively while keeping the safety and well-being of children and staff as the top priority.

13. TRAFFIC CONTROL & ATTENDANCE PLAN

Compliance: 105 CMR 430.210(D) & 430.211 Camp Gan Israel Natick / Metrowest Traffic Safety & Attendance Procedures

1. General Traffic Safety Speed Limit: The speed limit on all camp property is strictly 5 MPH. Pedestrian Priority: Pedestrians (campers and staff) always have the right of way. Restricted Areas: Campers are strictly prohibited from entering the parking lot or driveway areas without direct parent or staff supervision.

2. Arrival & Drop-Off Procedures (Park & Walk) Parking: Parents/Guardians must park their vehicles. Curbside drop-off is not permitted. Escort Requirement: All campers must be physically escorted by a parent or legal guardian from their vehicle to the designated Sign-In Station unless permission from parent was provided for independent walking, age 9 and up. Hand-Off: The parent/guardian must make visual contact with the Camp Director or designated Intake Staff. The camper is not considered "present" until signed in on the daily roster. Attendance Check: Following the immediate attendance taken at sign-in, the Camp Director will review the roster approximately one hour after the close of the sign-in period to ensure all information matches up and is accurate.

3. Departure & Pick-Up Procedures Identification: Staff will verify the identity of any individual picking up a camper against the Authorized Pick-Up List as provided by the director prior. Change of Plans: Any changes to pick-up arrangements must be communicated by the parent/guardian via the Brightwheel platform and the director will update the staff. Note: Verbal changes from a child are NOT accepted. Staff must see the permission update in Brightwheel or hear directly from the parent via phone or from the Camp Director Safe Release: Campers are only released once the authorized adult is present and the camper has been signed out.

4. Deliveries If a delivery must be made, a staff member will act as a spotter to guide the vehicle and keep campers out of way.

14. Transportation Policy & Safety Protocol

The safety of our campers and staff during off-site trips is our highest priority. The following policies govern all camp-sponsored transportation.

1. Vehicle & Capacity

Designated Vehicle: All camp transportation will be conducted using the camp’s official 14-passenger van.
Capacity Limits: Under no circumstances will the vehicle exceed its legal seating capacity of 14 passengers. Every passenger must have their own designated seat and functioning seatbelt.

2. Driver Qualifications & Safety Requirements

Certifications: The designated driver holds a valid driver's license with a clean driving record and is fully certified in First Aid and CPR.
Emergency Preparedness: The driver will always have immediate access to:
- A fully stocked, camp-approved First Aid Kit inside the vehicle.
- Emergency Information Files for all passengers, including camper medical forms, emergency contact details, and incident report logs.

3. Passenger Accountability & Attendance

To ensure no camper is ever left behind, strict roster checks will be enforced:

Pre-Trip Check: Attendance will be taken and verified against the official daily roster immediately before the van departs the camp.
Post-Trip Check: Attendance will be taken again immediately before the van departs the trip location to return to camp.
Visual Sweep: The driver or accompanying staff member will perform a physical and visual sweep of the entire van at the end of every trip to ensure no belongings or campers remain on board.

4. Camper Behavior & Expectations

All passengers must remain seated with seatbelts securely fastened at all times while the vehicle is in motion.
Distracting behavior, yelling, or throwing items inside the van is strictly prohibited to ensure the driver can focus entirely on the road.

Staff Note: In the event of a mechanical delay or emergency, the driver will safely pull over, ensure camper safety first, and immediately contact the Camp Director to initiate the emergency communication chain to parents.

15. OFF-SITE SWIMMING & LOST SWIMMER PLAN

Compliance: 105 CMR 430.204 & 430.210(C) Location: Wayland Community Pool

The Wayland Community Pool is located at 258 Old Connecticut Path, Wayland, MA 01778.

1. Supervision & Ratios Primary Supervision: The Wayland Community Pool lifeguards provide primary water rescue surveillance. Camp Staff Role: Camp Gan Israel Natick Metrowest staff are stationed on deck or in the water to supervise behavior and assist campers. Ratios: We maintain a ratio of 1 staff per 10 campers (ages 7+) and 1 staff per 5 campers (ages <7) at all times.

2. Swim Testing & Classification (Christian’s Law) Testing: All campers must take a swim test administered by Wayland Pool Lifeguards upon their first visit. Deep End: Only campers who pass the test are permitted in the deep end. Non-Swimmers: Campers who do not pass or decline the test are restricted to the shallow end (standing depth) and/or must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD (life jacket).

3. Keeping count Headcount Checks: Staff will conduct a camper head count Check every 15 minutes. Procedure: On the whistle signal, all campers must exit the water, stand bunk staff on the deck Staff counts daily attendance.

4. Emergency: Lost Swimmer Protocol Signal: If a camper is unaccounted for during a check or at any time, the Camp Director or Senior Staff will immediately alert the Wayland Lifeguards and blow 3 Loud Whistle Blasts. Action 1 (Clear Water): All campers exit the water immediately and line up for a roll call by their bunk staff Action 2 (Water Search): Wayland Lifeguards and designated Camp Staff perform a sub-surface search of the pool. Action 3 (Land Search): Designated staff search the locker rooms, bathrooms, and perimeter fence. Action 4 (911): If the camper is not found within 2 minutes, the Camp Director calls 911.

16. DAY CAMP CONTINGENCY PLAN

Compliance: 105 CMR 430.211

1. Unreported Absence (Failure to Arrive) If a registered camper is not present at roll call and no note was received via Brightwheel: The Camp Director will contact the parent/guardian via phone within one hour of camp start time to verify the absence.

2. Unregistered Child (Unexpected Arrival) If a child arrives who is not on the attendance list : They will not be admitted to the group activity. They will be supervised in the Camp Office. The Director will verify registration status and ensure Health History, Immunization, and Emergency Permission forms are on file before the child can participate.

3. Failure to Pick Up (Late Parent) If a parent/guardian is late: Staff will check Brightwheel for messages. 1 staff member will remain with the child at all times along with director on site at all times If no contact can be made with parents or emergency contacts after 1 hour, the Camp Director will contact the Natick Police/DCF for assistance.

16. BACKGROUND CHECK POLICY

Compliance: 105 CMR 430.090 Camp Gan Israel Natick / Metrowest Staff Background Check Policy

1. Mandatory Review No staff member or volunteer may have unsupervised contact with children until the Camp Director has reviewed and approved their background check results.

2. Required Checks (Conducted Annually/Tri-Annually) CORI: Criminal Offender Record Information (MA Dept of Criminal Justice Information Services). SORI: Sex Offender Registry Information (MA Sex Offender Registry Board). Juvenile Records: Included in the CORI check as required. National/State Check: For staff who have lived out of state in the past year.

3. Employment History & References Camp Van Israel requires a review of the applicant's work history for the previous 5 years. We require 3 positive references from individuals who are not related to the applicant.

4. Record Retention Background check documentation is stored in a secure, locked file separate from general personnel files and is retained for 3 years.

17. UNAUTHORIZED PERSONS PROTOCOL

Compliance: 105 CMR 430.190(D)

1. Visitor Policy All visitors must enter through the main entrance, sign in at the office, and wear a "Visitor" badge. Staff are trained to approach any adult without a badge.

2. Confronting an Intruder Approach: Staff will politely ask, "May I help you?" and direct the person to the office. Escort: Do not leave the person unescorted. Denial: If the person has no legitimate business, they will be asked to leave immediately.

3. Emergency Response If the person refuses to leave or appears aggressive: Code Word: Staff will initiate a "Shelter in Place" (move campers into the nearest lockable room). Call 911: The Director will call the police immediately. Report: A detailed incident report will be filed.

18. Food and Nutrition Policy

1. General Food Provision & Parent Responsibility

Parent-Provided Meals: Camp Gan Israel does not provide a daily hot lunch program. Parents are required to provide a complete, nutritious lunch and any additional personal meals or snacks their child may require for the duration of the camp day.
Storage Protocols: All parent-provided lunches must be sent in a closed lunchbox or bag labeled clearly with the child’s first and last name. Per Board of Health recommendations, parents are requested to include non-toxic ice packs in all lunches containing perishable items to maintain safe holding temperatures.

2. Emergency Backup Meals & Weekly Alternative Menu

In the event that a camper is still hungry after eating, does not want their packed lunch, or forgets to bring a meal, Camp Gan Israel provides emergency alternative backup options.

To maintain strict kosher compliance and meet local sanitary regulations, all alternative sandwich options are delivered directly from Butcherie Brookline.

The alternative emergency backup options are scheduled on a fixed weekly rotation as follows:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays: Choice of Egg Salad, Tuna Salad, or Sliced Cheese & Bread.
Wednesdays: Kosher Salami & Bread.

3. Allergy Management & Food Safety

Allergy Intake & Identification: Every camper's medical and allergy profile is thoroughly reviewed prior to the start of camp. A master allergy tracking log is maintained on-site as listed in our healthcare policies.Staff will cross-reference the ingredient list of any delivered meal against our master tracking log before assigning it to a child with life-threatening allergies.
Staff Distribution Requirements: Camp staff members are strictly limited to the distribution and delivery of these items. Staff members must wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water and wear single-use disposable gloves prior to handing out any pre-packaged lunch or snack item to campers.

Camp Gan Israel Natick - Daily Snack Menu & Inventory List

Approved Rotating Daily Snacks

Granola Bars
Clementines
Pretzels
Snackers / Tea Buiscuits

Staff Food Distribution & Safety Protocol

1. Pre-Service Requirements

Handwashing: All staff members must wash hands thoroughly with warm water and soap.
Disposable Gloves: Single-use disposable plastic gloves must be put on immediately after handwashing and worn for the entire duration of food handling and distribution.

2. Storage & Quality Control

Dry Goods Room: Store all granola bars, pretzels, and snackers in sealed, airtight plastic storage bins inside the pantry away from direct heat to protect crispness and avoid attracting pests.
Fresh Produce Station: Inspect clementines daily for freshness. Keep whole clementines stored in ventilated baskets or a refrigerated produce bin inside the Chabad kitchen to ensure freshness before serving.

3. Serving & Allergy Cross-Reference

Allergy Check: Staff must cross-reference the daily camper attendance roster with the master allergy tracking log before handing snacks to campers.
Serving Container Method: To prevent cross-contamination, never allow campers to reach their hands directly into bulk boxes of pretzels or snack bags. Staff must pour or portion individual snack counts into clean, single-use paper cups or bowls for distribution.

DPH and be licensed by the LBOH.