Getting Ready for Camp

• Children with asthma can lead healthy, active lives.
• Whether traveling far away or staying close to home, going camping takes time to plan. Asthma should be part of that planning.
• Be sure asthma is under good control before going to camp.

 

What is Asthma Control?

• Able to do everyday health activities.
• Normal sleep without asthma symptoms.
• Daytime asthma symptoms no more than 3 times a week.
• Reliever medicine used no more than 3 times a week for symptoms.
• No emergency visits for asthma.
• No missed school or daycare for asthma.

  

How to Plan For Camp

• Even if you think your child’s asthma is under control, see your child's doctor for a pre-camp check-up.
• Bring your child’s Asthma Action Plan, medicines and your questions.

At the appointment your child’s doctor should:

• answer your questions
• assess your child’s asthma control
• review and update your child’s Asthma Action Plan
• review and refill your child’s asthma medicines

 

What Should Be Packed For Camp?

You should pack:

• An up-to-date copy of your child’s Asthma Action Plan.
• Your child’s asthma medicines and spacer if using a puffer.
• A written list of how much medicine your child is taking and how often.
• Written list of your child’s asthma triggers.
• Extra asthma medicines in case they get lost.

 

Safety Ideas for Camping

• Be sure the camp has medical staff available. Most camps have a nurse.
• Ask about the camp rules for asthma medicines. Be sure your child can keep their Reliever medicine with them at all times.
• Find out what triggers your child may be exposed to while at camp.
• Review these asthma triggers with the camp staff and talk about how they would avoid them (eg. campfire smoke).
• Review how to follow and use the Asthma Action Plan with the camp nurse and your child's camp counselor.
• Be sure the camp nurse and your child’s counselor know how to use the asthma medicine.
• Be sure the camp has an emergency contact person and your child’s doctor’s information.

 

Asthma Allie Says:

"Good asthma control will help prevent problems while at camp!"

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The Children's Allergy & Asthma Education Centre ©2011