Camping is a great way to get back to nature and enjoy the outdoors. But, as with any outdoor activity, it comes with risks such as weather, terrain and wildlife encounters. Injuries can also occur from falls, fires and bites. While these risks are elevated when you’re camping, you can take steps to protect yourself and avoid injury by following these basic camping safety tips.
1. Familiarize yourself with your campsite and the surrounding area.
Before heading to your campsite, research it thoroughly. You want to know the area’s sanitary facilities, permits and booking information, possible obstacles or closure dates, and other important details about the campground. Use Google Maps, ask rangers and local campers, and check out campsite photos online. This will help you to understand what to expect and how to best prepare for your trip.
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2. Don’t approach wild animals.
While they may seem cute and harmless, you should never try to touch or feed wild animals. This can lead to aggression or disease as the animals become accustomed to humans and lose their natural instinct to stay away from people. Most animal injuries caused by people are a result of feeding wildlife, so it’s important to keep your distance from them at all times. Leaving food in your car or insulated cooler instead of on the ground is also an easy way to prevent unwanted wildlife visits to your campsite.
3. Wash your hands often and correctly.
While camping, it’s crucial to always wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. You should especially do so before eating and after handling raw foods, as well as after going to the bathroom. It’s also important to sanitize your cooking station and to wash your dishes and utensils in hot water with soap or hand sanitizer, as well as to properly dispose of garbage.
4. Bring first-aid kit.
It’s important to bring a first-aid kit while camping, as you never know when you might need it. In addition to the standard bandages and gauze, make sure you have a supply of hydrocortisone cream for any rashes or insect bites, and some antihistamine for allergy reactions and stings. You should also bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer to disinfect your hands.
5. Don’t use fuel-burning equipment inside tents, RVs or other enclosed shelters.
You should never use gas stoves, lanterns, heaters or charcoal grills inside a tent or other enclosed shelter, as this can cause carbon monoxide to build up. This is a colorless and odorless gas that can cause severe health conditions or even death in very little time.
Camping is a fun and exciting experience, but it’s important to remember these camping safety tips. By following these simple tips, you can reduce your risk of injury and have a more enjoyable camping trip. So, grab your tent, pack a bag of marshmallows and enjoy the outdoors! The next camping adventure you go on, remember these safety tips to have the best experience possible.