Safe Summer Camping 101

Camping is a wonderful experience for both children and adults and provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an inexpensive weekend or vacation in a natural environment. But there are many perils about which you need to be aware, from poisonous bugs and plants to fire safety.

Before you leave, make sure you stock up on medications to relieve the pain and itch of insect bites, sunburn and allergies. Have plenty of fresh water, suntan lotion with at least 30 SPF protection, a freshly charged cell phone, flashlights and extra batteries, a whistle, a map of the area, a first-aid kit, and ensure that you have told friends and family exactly where you are going and when you expect to be back. If your tent is new, practice at home setting it up and to ensure all the necessary parts are included.

Pitch your camp away from water which attracts bugs. Build a small campfire to help keep them away. Keep your camp clean of food scraps or expect bears and other wildlife to be attracted. Enjoy roasting marshmallows and having a singalong around your campfire, but never leave it unattended and ensure it’s out before you shut down for the night.

In the woods, watch for poison ivy. It grows in groups of three plants so can be fairly easy to spot if you are on the lookout for it. Remember the oil that causes the itch can stay on clothes or even the family pet so be prepared to eliminate the sources that could cause an uncomfortable night of scratching.

Never drink the water from a lake or river but bring bottled drinks. Don’t eat wild berries as some are poisonous. It’s better to bring granola bars, crackers, bread and fruit for snacks. Parents will have to be extra vigilant while camping if you have toddlers as we all know they love to put everything in their mouth! Caution your children, even the older ones, to stay where you can see them. It takes only moments to get disoriented in the trees and getting lost is a traumatic experience for everyone!

An excellent website at www.lovetheoutdoors.com/camping/Safety.htm gives the full listing of items that need to be in your first aid kit. Tips on avoiding bee, ant, and other insect stings and checking the area where you are about to sit very carefully are included.

Once you have ensured all your safety precautions are in place, you can concentrate on enjoying your camping experience. It can provide an excellent opportunity to increase your fitness. Hiking to the nearest water spout or washroom facilities, pitching a tent, and gathering kindling are all good exercises. Even with a family, you can plan a hike by packing the younger children in a child carrier on your back and taking occasional rest breaks for yourself and the older youngsters. Most campgrounds have walking trails and some even have rock-climbing opportunities nearby. Make sure all members of the family dress in layers and wear appropriate shoes.

By practicing safety at all times, you can enjoy a weekend or holiday away from the noise of the city, the television, video games, and the neighbours. Spend some quality time with friends or family at a campsite for a marvellous get-away this summer.

LesTout Recommends: