The Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism convened on June 8, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding safety protocols and emergency preparedness in recreational facilities, particularly in light of recent severe weather events.

The meeting began with a report from a representative of a local camp, who detailed the aftermath of a devastating storm that impacted their operations. The representative confirmed that all campers were safe and accounted for following the storm, which prompted the camp to end its term early on July 5. Parents were notified, and transportation was arranged with the assistance of Ingram ISD, which provided buses to reunite children with their families in Kerrville.

The representative emphasized the importance of maintaining an emergency action and evacuation plan, which is regularly updated to address various scenarios. Each summer, staff undergoes multi-day orientation training that covers emergency protocols, camper supervision, mental health awareness, and severe weather procedures. During storms, campers are moved to designated sheltered areas to ensure their safety.

A significant challenge highlighted was the unreliable cell service in rural areas, which necessitates a robust two-way radio communication system. The camp relies on long and short-range walkie-talkies to maintain effective communication during emergencies.

The discussions underscored the need for continuous improvement in safety measures and communication strategies in recreational settings, particularly in response to unpredictable weather patterns. The committee concluded with a commitment to further evaluate and enhance safety protocols across similar facilities in Texas.