Kodiak Christian Retreat Center Tsunami Protocol
Within the first hour and a half after campers arrive on Woody Island, staff go over safety procedures with them, including what we will do in the case of an earthquake and/or tsunami warning.
In the event of a tsunami warning, we move up into our evacuation area—110 feet above sea level. This area includes restroom facilities and 5 woodstove-heated cabins, so everyone can be sheltered.
Caretakers bring food, water, first aid supplies, and other safety equipment to the evacuation area.
We remain in the evacuation area until we receive an all-clear message.
During a tsunami warning, we will not bring any camper to the beach (for his/her safety and the safety of our staff). Even though you may desire to pick up your child, please have regard for your own safety..
It can be emotionally upsetting to children to be called to the telephone to speak with parents. Please leave staff phones open for emergency communications with the Coast Guard, and allow your child to continue camp activities uninterrupted.
The Kodiak Christian Retreat Center Board and our summer staff understand the possibility of a tsunami may cause anxiety. We have actually carried out our tsunami protocol three times, once with staff only (2023) and twice with campers (2021—7th & 8th grade camp) and (2025—3rd & 4th grade camp). We have learned from experience that children respond well to continuing regularly scheduled camp activities, modified to fit our evacuation area surroundings. For example, in 2025, we made s’mores, had our team cheer competition, played the game “Camouflage” in the woods, and sang camp songs until the all-clear came through.
If you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to call our camp caretaker at (907) 512-7168