Camping Safety Tips for the Great Outdoors

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Camping Safety Tips for the Great Outdoors main

The summer has arrived and after a year of lockdown and other pandemic restrictions, it is time to get out and release stress. People might even want to even unplug from the internet for a while. Camping in the wild is a great way to get away from the daily grind however that doesn’t mean that you have to give up all comforts of home. Going wall tent camping can offer all the necessary amenities even in the most remote places. However, when planning out a trip, it is best to take these safety tips into account so you don’t end up more stressed or even hurt on a getaway.

1. Equipment check

Make sure that your vehicle (oil, tires, brakes) and the camping gear is still in shape. If necessary you might want to schedule a check-up or maybe it is time for a new tent chosen at the hot-tent.com. Check electronics like GPS, headlamp, lantern, etc. that you don’t often use, maybe it is time for battery replacement or there is other damage from storage or the last trip. Also it might be time to apply a new waterproof coating to gear like coats, parkas, boots, etc. All the problems that you can avoid before you leave will add to your rest on the trip.

2. Supply check

In the city people are used to hopping down to the shop or ordering delivery at any time. When you go camping it is best to bring enough supplies. Check if there is drinkable water at your destination and make sure it is active. During dryer seasons wells or rain tanks might be depleted. Make sure you have what you need to keep hydrated. Make sure that your food is properly stored, take (dry) ice with you or some other refrigeration way if you need to cool it. Also make sure that you have some emergency food with you. Transport problems might keep you from shops so make sure that you always have something.

3. Drive carefully

On the way to your destination, fatigue will be your biggest enemy. Be sure to schedule enough breaks to keep your mind alert and change drivers often so that everyone gets enough rest. You can consider breaking the drive up into multiple parts if you pass some interesting spots. Once you get closer to your destination remember that you will most likely encounter more wildlife than you might be used to. Remember to never speed in these areas and be extra vigilant during dawn or dusk as animals will be more active then. Additionally, when driving on unfamiliar or unpaved roads it is best to drive slower to avoid any surprises behind the next turn, in less travelled areas a fallen tree or even a rockslide might not have been cleared yet. You will also enjoy more of the landscape if you slow down a bit.

4. Look around for risks

Once you arrive and if you have the chance take a moment to assess your camping spot for risks. Avoid camping under trees with large branches that could fall during heavy wind or a storm. Consider how water will flow after rain, always avoid setting up in creek beds, ditches or depressions. Nobody wants to have water in their tent, if there is no alternative you could consider digging a small ditch around your tent to divert water flow. If there are children in the party, it’s essential also to look around for steep drop-offs, holes or other dangers. Better to make sure that everybody knows of all the nearby hazards to avoid any surprises.

Camping Safety Tips for the Great Outdoors ladder

5. Follow the weather

Make sure that you know what weather to expect so you are prepared. Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding in gullies or canyons and slippery trails can lead to injuries. Mist can cause you to lose your way or miss terrain hazards. Sudden snow can block roads or trails even in summer. Find out the weather and plan your next day accordingly.

6. First Aid pack

If you are somewhere remote or even on a national park camping ground, you best bring a well-stocked First Aid kit. If one of your party has had First Aid training even better. Don’t go overboard but make sure you can deal with cuts, scratches or insectbites. You might also want to consider some general medicine to deal with common traveler ailments like diarrhea or fever. Also always make sure you have a way to contact emergency services if necessary.

7. Wildlife alert

Find out what animals and insects you will encounter during your trip. You will most likely come into contact with mosquitoes, ticks or other biting insects. Make sure that you are prepared to deal with them, see the previous item. Remember to keep your tent closed for a good night’s rest and don’t leave out food or drinks that might attract insects. In warmer places you might encounter snakes, just leave them along and make some noise to scare them off. Scavengers like bears and raccoons will try to get to your food, you will have to find out and follow the local rules for the safety of you and the animals. Enjoy spotting and observing the wildlife but don’t approach them too closely. Bears, moose, wolves and bison can react unexpectedly when they perceive a threat.

8. Fire safety

Nothing is more beautiful than a cosy campfire with friends or family under a starry sky, however a fire in the wrong place can easily get out of hand. Make sure that you take the necessary safety precautions. Check if you are allowed to make a fire in the area and if any special rules apply. Never leave a burning fire unattended and make sure you have a way to quickly douse it if necessary. Put the fire out when you leave for bed and make sure that there are no more smoldering embers left. Use water if you have it but sand or dirt will do if necessary. Spread the coals out with a stick or poker and make sure that they are out.

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