With all the media noise in our modern lives, an escape through camping is more appealing than ever. Many people are choosing to unplug from their screens and reconnect with nature.
And camping has many benefits. It helps you build relationships with friends and family, and it gets you out of your head and teaches you to enjoy the moment. You can get a decent amount of exercise when camping, and getting away for a while might even help improve your mental health.
With all these benefits, you’re probably itching to hit the road as soon as possible. Of course, modern conveniences and technology leave most people somewhat clueless when it comes to outdoor safety. If you want to reap the benefits of the great outdoors, it’s important to show some respect and to take precautions. Follow these tips for a safe yet fun camping experience.
What to Put in Your Safety Kit
If you plan on making camping a regular pastime, it helps to invest in the necessary materials for a camping safety kit. A safety kit holds everything you need in the event of an emergency in one convenient place. While some places sell pre-organized kits for consumers, you can build your own to save money, while personalizing it for your needs. Some things that every safety kit need:
- Waterproof matches
- Fire starter
- First Aid Kit
- Compass
- Swiss Army Knife
- Fire Extinguisher
- Rescue Blanket
- Whistle
- Signal Mirror
- Flashlight
- Batteries
- Rain Poncho
- Paracord
- Emergency Food
- Water Purifier
- Halizone Tablets
- Snake Bite Kit
- Plastic Sheet
How to Prevent Forest Fires
Forest fires have the potential to devastate wildlife, displace communities, and even kill people and animals. Unfortunately, with climate change and industrial destruction, they are more common than ever. To be a responsible camper, always practice proper safety techniques when dealing with fire.
If you’re camping in an area with a burn ban, don’t start a fire at all. Even a controlled fire can get out of control if it reaches dry grass. If there isn’t a burn ban, be sure to acquire a campfire permit from the park or campsite you plan to visit.
If you have a campfire permit, use best practices when building your fire. Clear away any and all flammable debris around the fire area. Only burn natural vegetation or untreated wood, and keep water and/or a fire extinguisher at hand. Never leave a fire unattended. Finally, when it is time to put out the fire, do so completely. Stomp it out then go over the embers with water to be sure. Remember, only you can prevent wildfires.
How to Hike Safely
Once you’ve set up camp, you’re ready to take in your beautiful surroundings. Hiking requires as many safety precautions as any other camping activity. It’s easy to get dehydrated when out on the trail so bring sufficient water for you and everyone in your group. It’s also smart to protect your skin with proper SPF and a hat. Wear appropriate hiking attire that allows you to move freely and comfortably for long periods of time.
In addition to guarding your personal health and comfort, you should also protect your surroundings. Never approach wild animals; if you do come across one, leave it alone and don’t provoke it. There are proper procedures for dealing with certain wild animals, and it’s best to read up on them before you embark on your adventure.
RV Safely
If you want to enjoy the views of the great outdoors but sleeping on the ground isn’t appealing, the RV life may be for you. If you choose to RV, there are several safety precautions to take specifically for your trip. First off, you’ll want to find a camping spot that has adequate hookups for power, sewage, and water. Also, fill your RV with the essentials for the time you’re spending outdoors. You’ll also need to clean the vehicle and get it serviced before you hit the road. As much as we love the great outdoors, you don’t want to experience from the roadside next to a broken down RV.
In addition to the standard safety kit mentioned above, you should bring items that will help you in the case of a roadside emergency. Be sure to pack a tire jack that can handle your RV’s weight. Spare tires and fix-a-flat should also be available. Roadside flares are dangerous to use at a campsite, but in the case of a breakdown they can signal for assistance. It’s also a good idea to fill up on an extra can of gas if you’re going to a place where gas stations are few and far between.
Let’s Get Outdoors!
Now that you know some best practices, you’re ready to explore everything camping has to offer. Building a proper safety kit, practicing safe fire etiquette, and taking care of yourself and your surroundings while hiking are essential for a great outdoors experience. If you’re into the RV life, take the time to prepare for the emergencies that can come as a price for convenience. Most importantly, take care of the wilderness around you so you can enjoy it now just as much the next time you camp.
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