Camping trips are more fun when they are safe and comfortable. “Roughing it” goes more smoothly when everyone involved is prepared for anything that can happen. Plan ahead and research camping safety with these easy tips.
The most common camping safety issues are: insect bites, allergic reactions to poisonous plants, exposure to the elements, and getting lost. Make a camping safety preparedness kit before you leave on your trip. Your kit should include:
- First Aid Kit
- Insect Repellent or Bug Spray
- Emergency Sleeping Bag or Rescue Blanket
- Cell Phone and Battery Charger
- Utility Knife
- Emergency Food like granola bars
- Flashlight and Batteries
- Fire Starters or Waterproof Matches
Camping Safety in Bad Weather
Always be prepared for any type of weather. Do not assume, if you are camping in the summer that temperatures can not drop, snow can also occur in summer at higher elevations. Storms happen all year round and there can be sudden, dramatic shifts in temperatures from freezing cold to sweltering heat all within in a few hours.
On hot summer days, plan on doing your hiking, fishing or climbing during the cooler mornings and evenings. During the hotter times of the day, spend that time doing less physically demanding activities. Be sure to always wear skin protection clothing such as hats, light colored clothing, and sunscreen.
Things can change in a moment when you’re out hiking in the wilderness. Make sure you always bring a map and compass.Teach children to recognize landmarks at the camp site, and while fishing, boating, and hiking. While outdoors, every now and then, turn around and look at the trail to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Remain where you are and stay calm if you become lost. Wear a whistle, which can be heard much farther away than the human voice. The universal help signal is to blow three notes at full volume. Do not rely exclusively on 21st century technology. For example, bring your cell phone along on trips, but remember that, unless it is a satellite linked phone, service in rural and remote areas can be nonexistent.
Enjoy wildlife from a distance!
They may look cute and cuddly on TV but wild animals are wild! Keep away from animals encountered while on a camping trip or hike. Do not chase, bother, or disturb wildlife, and refrain from attracting wild animals with open garbage cans or litter.
Do not touch or try to feed wild animals. Do not attempt to lure or bring wild animals into your tent or trailer. Do not try to help or play nurse to sick or injured animals. Predators can keenly sense prey in distress, and could be attracted to your location. Wild animals can also spread infections to humans that could also be fatal such as bird flu or rabies.
By remembering to incorporate proper preparation and safety precautions, every camping trip and outdoor activity can be fun, safe, and happy!