While camping is fun, it is also important to stay safe! Here are some helpful tips from the Centers for Disease Control & Smokey the Bear for safety during your camping trip. Safe campers are happy campers!
Camping Safety
Prepare your food safely
Pack food in tight waterproof bags/containers
Keep food in insulated cooler
Keep raw food separate from cooked food
Wash your hands and prep areas often
Cook food to proper temperature
Chill food promptly when you are finished with your meal
Bring plenty of clean drinking water to use for both drinking and cooking
Plan Safe Physical Activity
Bring protective gear: sturdy shoes, life jackets, helmets, etc… based on the activities you have planned
Be able to recognize and avoid poisonous plants, such as, poison ivy and poison oak
Avoid injury by wearing protective gear and paying close attention during activity and knowing your physical limits
Never engage in a physical activity alone. Always have a buddy.
When swimming, do not swallow water
Always shower/bathe immediately following the activity you had planned
Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Never use fuel burning equipment, i.e. gas stoves, heaters, lanterns, or charcoal grills, inside of a tent, camper or other enclosed space. This can raise the carbon monoxide levels.
Bring extra bedding, clothing, and food as an alternative to keep warm inside of your tent or camper without fuel burning equipment.
Avoiding Wild Animals
Some wild animals can carry diseases that can be harmful to you and/or household pets
Do not feed, get near or touch wild animals
Keep your food stored in sealed containers and out of reach of animals
If you plan on bringing household pets on your trip, make sure they are vaccinated
Always check your family pets for ticks before, during and after your camping trip
Make sure your family pets have adequate food, water, and shelter that is kept from wild animals
Repelling Insects
Always use insect repellent containing DEET when camping
Wear light colored, long sleeves and pants so you are able to easily spot bugs, like ticks
Check for ticks daily
Sun Protection
Always wear sunscreen and lipscreen
Take rests in the shade, especially when it is hot
Wear hats and sunglasses along with your light colored, long sleeves and pants
Preventing Temperature Related Illness
Pack an adequate amount of bedding and clothing
Drink alcohol free and sugar free beverages to stay hydrated
Rest often, cool off/warm up when you need to
In addition to these safety preparations, make sure you know the campsite contacts in case of emergencies. Bring essentials like GPS, flashlights and first aid kits to remain prepared. Let others know your camping plans so they know where to find you in case of an emergency. Last but not least, keep an eye on weather reports so you can plan accordingly.
Once you are safely prepared for your camping trip and arrive at your destination, it is best to become familiar with the area so you can practice Forest Fire Prevention. Another important and safe part of camping!
