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Summer camp safety in focus for parents

Parents and experts discuss summer camp registration at WPTV's 'Let's Hear It' event
Palm Beach County parent Justin Brantley speaks to WPTV anchor Ashley Glass at a Let's Hear It event at the Palm Beach Zoo on March 15, 2024.PNG
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WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Many parents in South Florida are starting to look into summer camps for their children, and safety is a top priority.

Justin Brantley, father of two, talked to WPTV about summer camp sign-ups for his daughters at a "Let's Hear It" community meet-up at the Palm Beach Zoo.

"It's very important because the kids need more interaction with other kids," Brantley said.

Palm Beach County parent Justin Brantley speaks to WPTV anchor Ashley Glass at a Let's Hear It event at the Palm Beach Zoo on March 15, 2024 (2).PNG
Palm Beach County parent Justin Brantley speaks to WPTV anchor Ashley Glass at a Let's Hear It event at the Palm Beach Zoo on March 15, 2024.

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Brantley said he's interested in safety and training protocols at any camp his children might attend.

Dominika Nolan, the director of education and prevention services at the Center for Child Counseling, offers advice for parents considering summer camps.

"Ask what's the protocol. How do they screen their employees?" Nolan said. "What's their interview process? Do they do fingerprint checks?"

WPTV anchor Ashley Glass speaks to Dominika Nolan, the director of education and prevention services at the Center for Child Counseling, on March 15, 2024.PNG
WPTV anchor Ashley Glass speaks to Dominika Nolan, the director of education and prevention services at the Center for Child Counseling, on March 15, 2024.

Nolan said it's important to find out if a camp is accredited by the American Camp Association and if it has a state license. She also suggested requesting an in-person meeting with the camp director and considering it a red flag if there is any resistance.