Camping Safety Keeps the Summer Fun
Summer’s not complete without some time spent outdoors. So why not spend that time surrounded by plants and animals? Fresh air, sounds of nature, and an escape from digital devices can make you want to head for the woods. But before you do, make sure you are practicing camping safety by preparing for your trip ahead of time. Accident Recovery Team has compiled some tips to help you plan a safe and enjoyable camping trip for the family.
Know Where to Go for Help
The first step in camping safety happens before even packing your backpack. Do some research ahead of time to know where help is available. Knowing where the local hospital is located and how to get there could save precious time. If you’re camping in fire danger season, take some time to work out your evacuation plan. Many parks have no or limited cell phone coverage. Look at your network’s coverage map to work out where you can go to make emergency phone calls if needed. It’s also a great idea to let friends and family know of your plans and when you expect to be home.
Pack the Essentials
Camping safety is all about being prepared. Be sure to have access to maps, regardless of cell phone service. Having a printed copy of the park or local map promises a reliable guide to avoid getting lost. Also include a comprehensive and well-stocked First Aid kit. Better yet is to have some first aid training in case medical help can not be reached easily. Also make sure you bring plenty of water with you for drinking and washing. Plus, consider how you’ll store your food. Air-tight containers are important to keep bugs from crawling in.
It’s also important to check your weather app before packing for an overnight trip in the woods. Look at both the day-time and night-time temperatures as warm sunny days can turn into frosty cold nights. Camping safety means packing for warm days as well as cold nights. To help prevent bites from mosquitos, ticks and other insects, pack insect repellent, long-sleeved tops and long pants.
When You’re at the Campsite
Before setting up your tent, have a look around and consider the risks in the immediate area. Consider where water will drain in the event of rain. Avoid camping in creek beds and over ditches where water may pool. If you’re camping with children, set up away from potential dangers like rivers, creeks, or steep drop-offs. A common camping safety tip that is often overlooked is to look out for ant nests when setting up camp. It’s no fun setting up your tent on top of a horde of angry ants.
If lighting a campfire, be sure to check the conditions to find an appropriate and safe location. It’s also incredibly important to never leave a fire unattended. Make sure kids keep a safe distance and keep the fire as small as possible. Our final camping safety tip is that after you’re settled in, keep food and trash inside your tent or car. This prevents animals from raiding your campsite.
Accident Recovery Team is Here for You
If you experience a camping accident and need a committed, experienced personal injury attorney, please reach out. Contact any of the attorneys at the Accident Recovery Team by calling us toll free at 866-263-0505. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and provide a transparent examination of your case. The consultation is free and you never pay a fee until we win.