Got a kid going to camp? Between all the new friends she’ll make and adventures she’ll have, she’s bound to love it. But according to research by Nationwide Children’s Hospital, camp accidents happen most often during supervised activities, and the risk for injuries increases after 14 days or more. 

Make sure your kids have fun and stay safe with these tips from the American Camp Association (ACA):

• Send them to an ACA-accredited camp.

• Staff should follow state transportation laws. 

• The camper-to-counselor ratio should be in line with ACA recommendations, which vary by age and type of camp.

• Check counselors’ training and age (they should be at least 18, trained in safety regulations, emergency protocol, behavior management, child abuse prevention and camp supervision procedures) and check that they’re certified in CPR.

• Find out how counselors discipline kids. 

• Ask how staff handles medical emergencies.

• Make sure helmets and other safety equipment are used for sports.

Now that you’re ready to send the kids off, here’s how to prep:

• Alert counselors about conditions or allergies your kid has that require medication, which should be labeled with instructions.

• Apply sunscreen to your child before he heads onto the camp bus. Be sure he or his counselor reapplies the lotion, especially after swimming. 

• Send him in supportive sneakers. 

• Keep your pediatrician and an urgent care facility on speed dial for after-hours emergencies.