Just two days before the devastating floods at Camp Mystic claimed the lives of at least 27 individuals, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) approved the camp's emergency plans. This shocking information comes to light through records obtained by ABC News, raising critical questions about the adequacy and execution of these emergency protocols.
The inspection report dated July 2 indicates that state inspectors observed that Camp Mystic had established emergency plans in place for potential disasters. These plans were reportedly communicated to staff and volunteers during training sessions and briefings, underscoring the camp's commitment to safety. Lara Anton, a spokesperson for DSHS, emphasized that camps are mandated to develop their own emergency plans, which are subsequently assessed by the state to ensure compliance with the Texas Administrative Code.
According to Anton, the emergency plans must encompass various scenarios, including disasters like flooding, tornadoes, serious accidents, epidemics, and fatalities. During the inspection, it was verified that Camp Mystic had posted plans for these emergencies in every building and had adequately trained staff and volunteers on the necessary response actions.
However, the specific details of Camp Mystic's emergency plans were not disclosed in the records released by the state. The DSHS provided the July 2 inspection report along with five years of prior reports regarding the youth camp. The findings from this inspection indicated that the camp complied with various regulations, with no deficiencies or violations noted during this particular visit.
At the time of the inspection, Camp Mystic was hosting 557 campers and had 108 staff members across its Guadalupe and Cypress Lake locations. Given the tragic events that unfolded shortly after the approval of its emergency plans, there are growing concerns regarding the effectiveness of these protocols and the preparedness of youth camps in Texas to handle unforeseen disasters.
This incident raises critical points about the importance of rigorous emergency planning and the responsibility of youth camps to ensure the safety of their campers. As investigations continue, it is essential for the public to stay informed about the measures being taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.
