Emergency Preparedness FAQ

Westwind maintains a comprehensive Emergency Plan developed specifically for our unique coastal location. This plan is updated annually and meets or exceeds American Camp Association (ACA) standards. All staff receive thorough training in emergency procedures, first aid, and communication protocols.

All cabins and buildings are equipped with a fire alarm and an evacuation map (below). There are first aid kits in most buildings, and working fire extinguishers in both lodges. Fire hoses are available around main camp and there is a working fire alarm on the south side of the Ridge. Emergency phone numbers are available in each cabin and there is a radio in the kitchen galley.

All campers and guests are informed of our alerts, signals, and protocols when they arrive to camp and all evacuation trails are clearly marked.

Yes. Every member of our staff participates in annual emergency preparedness training, including first aid/CPR, fire response, earthquake and tsunami protocols, and evacuation coordination. Key staff also receive advanced training to lead during natural or medical emergencies.

We are equipped to respond to a wide range of emergencies, including:

• Natural disasters (earthquakes, tsunamis, storms, and wildfires)

• Medical incidents or injuries

• Missing persons or lost campers

• Ocean and river-related concerns

• Power or utility disruptions

• Unexpected visitors or trespassers

• Security threats (such as active shooter scenarios)

Westwind has clearly defined evacuation gathering points that are less than ten minutes from all camp areas, including The Point and Ranch Hill. These are high ground locations safe from tsunami and flooding risks. We also have established gathering zones for shelter during storms or fire. Our staff will guide and account for all campers during these procedures.

Yes. Westwind maintains a dedicated emergency supply cache that includes food, water, medical supplies, blankets, and tools. We also have multiple “Go Bags” placed strategically across the property for quick access. Our emergency radio network is supported by backup power to maintain communication during outages.

While Westwind is located in a remote and beautiful setting, we maintain reliable communication tools, including radios, phones, and cell service, to contact local emergency services immediately. In life-threatening situations, emergency personnel can access our site via our access road or air, and we are prepared to coordinate with them effectively to receive emergency services.

The closest hospital and urgent care are in Lincoln City, about 15-25 minutes away by car. Emergency services are within 10-30 minutes away from Westwind.

At Westwind, the safest course of action in most emergencies is to remain on-site and activate our established emergency protocols. Our staff are thoroughly trained to guide campers to secure, designated gathering points located on high ground and within a few minutes of all camp areas. These locations are well-stocked with emergency supplies and are part of our comprehensive response plan.

We may decide to cancel or move certain activities to mitigate risk, or keep campers close to main camp until advisories are lifted or we have deemed a situation to be fully safe. This may mean "evacuating" or bringing everyone back to Wilson Lodge or the cabin areas and then following protocols and procedures from there.

In the rare case where evacuation becomes both safe and necessary, Westwind has procedures in place to coordinate transportation off-site. Parents will be contacted and informed of any changes and plans, with information on how to meet their child.

Our first priority is always the safety and care of your child. During an emergency, our team will be focused on keeping campers safe and following our response protocols.

Once the situation is under control, Westwind staff will send a text or an email update to parents and guardians as soon as possible. Please note that during this time, staff may not be able to answer phone calls right away, as they are actively managing the situation.

We appreciate your patience and trust — waiting for official communication helps us focus on what matters most: your child’s safety.

We recommend reassuring your child that Westwind staff are trained and ready to keep them safe. Emergencies are rare, but if something unexpected happens, our team will guide them step-by-step. All campers receive a brief orientation to help them feel confident and informed without causing unnecessary worry, and we periodically do drills with staff and campers so they know what to do.