Camping is a special and memorable way to immerse yourself in nature.
However, making overnight memories in the great outdoors and under the stars carries some risks. Thus, it is important to be careful and prepared, prioritizing your safety at all times.
Practicing camping safety can protect you from a number of hazards in the outdoors.
Unsplash/Kevin Ianeselli
Here’s a look at a few important safety tips to consider when camping:
Protect yourself from the sun
Spending time outdoors in the sun increases your exposure to UV rays which can be quite harmful to your skin.
As such, ensure that you are well prepared to protect yourself from the sun by packing your sunglasses, hat, protective clothing and sunscreen.
Consider fire safety
Creating memories around the campfire is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any good camping trip. However, fire can be dangerous if you don’t take the necessary precautions.
Make it a point to adhere to safety protocols in order to prevent wildfires, especially during dry seasons. Double check that fires are completely extinguished before retiring for the night or leaving your campsite. Importantly, keep a bucket of sand or water nearby for any emergencies.
Beware of animals
Being in the great outdoors also means that you will be in the habitat of some animal species.
Learn about the local wildlife species found around your camping area, and adhere strictly to regulations regarding wildlife interactions. Avoid hiking alone, and store your food securely to deter animals.
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Stay hydrated
Spending time outdoors, especially in the sun, can increase your risk of dehydration. Drink plenty of water during your camping trip.
Make sure that you also take water with you whenever you need to leave your camping site to partake in activities or for any other reason.
Senior Couple Enjoying Camping Vacation (Picture: iStock / monkeybusinessimages)
Be prepared for an emergency
Although constantly thinking about the worst case scenario is not ideal, being prepared for any potential emergencies is essential.
Equip yourself with basic first aid skills and remember to pack a comprehensive emergency kit. Furthermore, familiarize yourself with the emergency procedures of your campsite, including how to signal for help and to access emergency services.
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