Camping safety
Lots of families will be going camping this summer for their vacation. Here are a few tips to keep your trip fun and safe.
Plan ahead for your park or camping visit. Many parks offer a lot to do, so when you plan your trip make sure they offer activities that are right for your family. Is your group one that likes to watch birds and enjoy easy hiking or is your group more adventurous and wants to go whitewater rafting or mountain climbing? Injuries occur when you push your group beyond their physical abilities.
Consider your setting – is it a beach, a desert or a forest? What will the temperature be like? Is the campsite accessible or will you have to hike to get there? Do you know how much to pack based on the length of time you are planning on staying? Will you be staying in a cabin or a tent? Are their showers and restrooms easily accessible? One of the worst things is forgetting essentials like a raincoat or camp stove. Make a packing list and double check it to see that nothing is left behind.
Before your trip, look at the “plan your visit” section on the park’s website. This will include food storage and disposal requirements, fire regulations, pet rules, etc.
Pack your food properly in tight, waterproof containers and store in an insulated cooler. The last thing you want is anyone getting sick from contaminated food.
Keep an eye on the weather before your trip and don’t forget the sunscreen – remember you can burn on both sunny and cloudy days.
Fires within your campground should be at least 15 feet from tents, shrubs and trees. Keep your fire small and contained in a designated area like a fire pit. Never leave a fire unattended and keep a water bucket nearby. Make sure the fire is out before going to sleep.
Prepare for the unexpected. With children, emphasize staying together and carry a whistle. Use the buddy system and make sure everyone is physically capable of participating before setting out on an adventure. Write your campsite number on their hand, or on a sticker inside their shirt sleeve. That way they can quickly find their campsite number. Kids should keep their shoes on at all times. They can slip, step on a poisonous spider or a sharp rock. Teach your kids about poisonous plants and what they look like. Review animal safety with them.
Safety should always come first because it only takes one mishap for your trip to be ruined.
Cinda Seamon is the Community Risk Reduction & Outreach Program Coordinator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.
