In a recent meeting of the Texas House of Representatives' Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism, members expressed deep condolences to families affected by a devastating storm that swept through the Hill Country. The emotional toll of the disaster was palpable, as representatives acknowledged the grief shared by the community.

The primary focus of the meeting was on youth camp safety protocols, particularly in light of the recent storm. A representative from Waldemar, an all-girls camp celebrating its 100th summer, provided insights into their safety measures and response during the storm. With 318 campers and 150 staff members on-site, the camp's leadership was proactive in monitoring the weather conditions. The camp director and maintenance manager received alerts early in the morning, prompting immediate action to secure the property.

Despite the storm's intensity, Waldemar's cabins, situated above the river, remained safe from flooding. However, the camp's location posed challenges due to low water bridges, making evacuation during a flood particularly dangerous. As a result, the camp has a longstanding protocol to shelter in place during severe weather events, a decision that was reaffirmed during the storm when power outages and limited cell service complicated communication.

The discussions highlighted the importance of safety standards in youth camps, especially in areas prone to severe weather. The committee's focus on these protocols underscores a commitment to ensuring the well-being of children in recreational settings. As the community continues to recover from the storm, the meeting served as a reminder of the need for robust safety measures and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Looking ahead, the committee plans to further evaluate safety protocols across youth camps in Texas, aiming to enhance standards and ensure the protection of campers in future emergencies.