Must-Know Health And Safety Tips When Camping
Make sure you have everything you need for your camping trip before you head out into the woods; set up your tent and unroll your sleeping bag.
Rescue might be a long distance off if you get into trouble when camping in the wilderness. Preparing in advance ensures that your next camping trip is enjoyable and safe for the whole family. Here are a few basic rules that hikers, campers, and outdoor lovers of all skill levels should follow:
Maintain contact
Prepare for your trip by charging your phone in advance, turning it off, and storing it in your car (along with a car charger, of course). Pack a portable battery charger if you don’t have access to power outlets. Unless you know your phone will have service in the location, you should always have a map handy in case you need help.
Prepare ahead of time
If you intend to spend the entire day outside, remember to pack some clothes with a high UPF rating to protect you from the sun. Pack a raincoat or an umbrella in your car or luggage just in case it starts to rain. Always carry sunscreen.
Use an insect repellent to protect yourself from disease-carrying mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. When using these items on kids, be careful to follow the dosing guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If you’re going to be in a very bug-ridden location, you should pack some lightweight insect masks and bug-repellent apparel.
Use caution while swimming in seas with currents, rip tides, or high boat activity. If you are near water, bring flotation gear like life jackets so everyone can swim safely. After swimming, take a shower to prevent the swimmer’s itch, an allergic response caused by contact with animal parasites in the water.
Preparation is the key, so ensure you have enough food and drink in case you have to make an unexpected stop or stay somewhere longer than planned. If you’re doing any outdoor activity away from your campground, including hiking, you must have water with you. It’s best to stay out of the sun if you’ve been drinking, as this speeds up dehydration.
Be careful of fires
Don’t use gasoline to light a fire at the campsite: Gasoline and other fuel vapours are highly combustible. Injuries from igniting bonfires with gasoline are a common summertime sight at hospitals, and you certainly don’t want to cause forest fires. If you cannot obtain dry wood, pack tinder or fire-starting sticks.
