Article Author: Harsh Paul from www.deepbluemountain.com
Staying safe while camping is a top priority. Most people assume this safety to be dependent on risks like animal attacks. True, that one is a concern, but the real danger is much more mundane.
The threat to your safety might come from being poorly prepared for your trip outdoors. It’s not bears you should worry about, it’s basic safety and preparedness. Here are some tips for better safety while camping
1. Practice Campfire Safety
Who doesn’t enjoy a good campfire while in the outdoors? A majority of campsites offer fire pits or similar amenities to get the campfire going. Whether it’s a campsite with a fire pit, or if you’re making your own campfire, keep safety first.
The fire should be a safe distance away from your tent and other belongings. Also, keep it away from bushes, trees, and any other potentially flammable item. No fire should be left unattended and make it a point to always have a bucket of water at hand.
2. Know The Weather And Temperature
Being prepared for the weather is the way to safety. It’s not just extreme conditions that a camper should worry about. Even small changes in weather can greatly influence a campsite and campers.
A small drizzle after a pleasant day can bring on a cold night. Knowing tricks to keep warm and how to insulate your tent could very well be lifesavers. The gear and camping experience shouldn’t just be about the expected weather and temperature. Give equal attention to potential swings in temperature.
If your campsite has the potential to go very cold, make sure you have a suitable sleeping bag and clothing. Remember, whether it’s the rain, cold, or any other weather situation, it’s always better to be over-prepared than being under-prepared.
3. Choosing The Right Tent, Shelter, And Spot
The choice of a camping location should keep your safety in mind. Considerations for your age, experience, and camping preference are important. Amenities will vary depending on whether you’re getting a cabin or taking along an RV or tent. So, plan your gear to your convenience and choice of shelter.
Amenities available at the campground should also be considered. When you pitch a tent, look around to make sure it is the right spot. Ideally, you want it at a place that has at least some protection from wind. Shaded locations might be better, but choose a spot that will stay out of water drainage in case of rain.
Since you’re in the great outdoors, look around to see that the campsite is safe. Take a look at the surroundings to check for telltale problem signs.
If you see any wasp nest, hive, or similar spots, it’s obviously not the place to set up camp. Check for poisonous plants like poison ivy or poison sumac. Also steer clear of locations with berries, animals like bears might use the spot to forage.
4. Prepare Your Food And Water
Carry generous food and water supply along for your trip. Again, being over-prepared is better than being under-prepared. Staying hydrated is very important and you will need water for food as well. Make sure you have enough!
It might be necessary to carry a water-filtration system so potable water supply is available. Similarly, don’t keep food with the view of rationing enough to last the trip. Carry extra to account for any mishaps.
Proper storage of food and water is necessary. Your tent should not have any food crumbs or waste on the floor. That’s just an invitation to critters. Rodents might even chew through the tent to get that tiny crumb off the floor. Carry along bear canisters or similar protective gear, and where possible, keep the food out of the tent at a safe location away from animals.
5. Safety From Insects
Staying safe from insects is a necessity. Carry along an insect repellent that doesn’t dissolve in water easily. Spray the tent walls, mesh windows, etc. to keep mosquitoes and other critters out. You may even consider getting a mosquito net to sleep comfortably.
The other problem is ticks. Check your body and clothes regularly to ensure there are no ticks – don’t spare a single spot. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants can offer some protection. However, it’s always better that you check your body as well. Light-colored clothing can be pretty useful in spotting ticks more quickly.
6. Stay Protected From The Sun
Protection from heatstroke, sunstroke, sunburns, or just regular UV-ray protection. Ensure you are ready and prepared to deal with the sun. Carry along a quality sunscreen to keep you protected from the sun’s rays. This applies even if you’re camping somewhere cold. Doubly so, if there’s snow.
7. Have A First Aid Kit And Medical Necessities
Always keep a first aid kit with you and keep it handy. This kit should include things like bandages and necessary medication. If you or someone in your group have medications prescribed for them, make it a point to put them in the first aid kit.
It is fruitful to treat your vacation as more than a simple outing, especially if you plan to spend several days. Similarly, if you’re traveling a long distance, treat it like you would plan a responsible vacation. Camping insurance can help deal with the financial strain of health or other problems occurring during a camping trip.
8. Don’t Forget Technology
Modern life is intricately connected and very dependent on technology. Camping is a good place to give our technology addiction a rest and stay away from mobile phones and tablets. However, technology as a tool for camping safety should not be ignored.
Don’t completely quit your phone and other gadgets. Services like maps, GPS, etc. can be lifesavers in several situations. For some more exquisite locations, consider more specific locations like GPS pointers, GPS beacons, satellite phones, etc. These things can be a lifesaver especially in circumstances where the campers are lost or cannot be contacted.
Remember the classic and age-old techniques as well. Learning to read a topographic map is extremely useful. They’re easily available and often have more information than what a GPS can deliver. Similarly, someone who’s not with you on the trip should know your schedule and expect contact from you. If this person doesn’t hear from you, they should be prepared to call authorities for help.
This article has been provided by Harsh Paul
My name is Harsh Paul. I am an enthusiastic blogger writer at deepbluemountain.com and my main field of writing is camping & hiking. This lifestyle inspires me to write articles about it with great enjoyment.
