[WHITEHALL, WI]- [6/10/2026]-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UW–Madison Division of Extension Hosts Safety Day Camp for Local Youth
Whitehall, WI — The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension in Trempealeau County recently hosted a Safety Day Camp for youth participating in the Independence and Arcadia Summer School programs. A total of 60 youth attended the event, engaging in hands-on learning experiences focused on a variety of important safety topics.
Throughout the day, participants rotated through interactive sessions covering boating safety, tick awareness, personal safety, wilderness first aid, and dental hygiene. Each session was designed to provide youth with practical skills and knowledge they can use in everyday situations.
Safety Day Camp was made possible through strong community partnerships. The Trempealeau County Health Department led the tick awareness session, Rivertown Dental provided education on dental hygiene, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources taught boating safety. Extension staff facilitated sessions on wilderness first aid and personal safety.
Youth were actively engaged throughout the program and shared positive feedback about their experience. One participant shared, “I loved being here,” while others reflected on what they learned, including, “I learned how to put a life jacket on when we are in the water,” and “I learned how to help myself when I am hurt.” These reflections highlight the meaningful impact of hands-on safety education.
The event provided a fun and supportive environment where youth could build confidence while gaining valuable life skills.
“We are grateful for the support of our community partners who make programs like this possible,” said Andrea Rippley-Schlais, 4‑H Program Educator with UW–Madison Extension. “By working together, we can provide meaningful, high-quality experiences that help youth stay safe and prepared.”
Safety Day Camp is part of UW–Madison Extension’s ongoing effort to support youth development through education, leadership, and community partnerships. Programs like this help equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions and stay safe in a variety of situations. UW–Madison Extension appreciates the continued support of community partners and the local community in making programs like this a success.
For more information about youth programming in Trempealeau County, contact the UW–Madison Division of Extension Office at (715) 538-1962.
