If you’re going camping, you need to stay safe. Camping has many potential hazards. Some of them are obvious, like poison ivy, and some of them are more subtle, like bugs and snakes. Here, we’ll provide tips to keep you and your campsite safe.
Choose the proper shelter and site
1- Think About Your Age, Health, And Abilities, As Well As Those of Other Campers in Your Group
You’ll need different gear for tents versus cabins or recreational vehicles, so plan accordingly. Camping in a cabin will give you a full bed and bunk beds, but if you sleep in a tent, you’ll need an air mattress and sleeping bag. About 60 percent of campers still choose tents even though recreational vehicles and cabins provide more amenities. Campgrounds provide tent campers with picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms with showers, and recreational areas.
2- Be Aware of the Current Weather Forecast
Check the weather report ahead of time. Weather can change quickly, so be prepared for inclement weather like rain, snow, or high heat and humidity. It’s also important to monitor weather conditions while camping as Mother Nature changes quickly.
3- Safely Pack and Store Food
If you leave leftovers on a picnic table or in other unsecured areas, you might attract wildlife. Protect food from animals by packing it in containers that are waterproof and tight and storing it in an insulated cooler. Separate raw and cooked foods to prevent foodborne illness. Each year, contaminated food affects one out of six people so ensure you follow proper food safety practices.
4- Practice Campfire Safety
Campfires should be at least 15 feet away from tent walls, bushes, and trees. Ensure your fire is small and contained, such as in a fire pit. Watch your fire at all times. You should always have a bucket of water close by to put out your fire. Put out all embers, not just the red ones. Always remember to never leave firearms around the campfire.
5- Use Insect Protection
Spray yourself with insect repellent that won’t dissolve easily in water to avoid insect bites. Check for ticks every day, especially in unexpected places. Also, wear shirts and pants with long sleeves when hiking to avoid insect bites. After a hike or any outdoor activity, dry your clothes on high heat for at least 10 minutes to kill ticks that might have come home on your clothing.
6- Be Aware of Allergies
If you’re allergic to bees, wasps, or any other allergen that requires an EpiPen, be sure to pack one for unexpected encounters. Also, have a first aid kit available, and be aware of dizziness, difficulty breathing, and swelling around bites or places where plants or insects might have touched your skin.
That’s what you need to know about camping safety. As you can see, there are a lot of things to keep in mind when you go camping. Most importantly, remember to be safe. If you follow these simple tips, you can enjoy the great outdoors and have a safe trip.