Summertime is also camping time for thousands of families, hikers, and outdoorspeople across the U.S. To make sure you are focusing more on enjoying the outdoors it helps to incorporate some basic health and safety skills during your camping trip.
When your outdoors you may likely experience a slew of personal safety risks including insect bites, UV rays, dehydration, and even limited medical access. But the good news for campers is that it is a fairly straightforward process for maintaining adequate health and safety during your trip. Based on similar camping safety skills collected by the CDC, here are just a few ideas to keep you safe and healthy throughout your camping trip!
Prepare for the outdoors with ample food and water
Regardless of where you are camping you’ll want to make sure that you have ample food and water on your person at all times. This is especially important in remote camping sites where access to food or water is limited or not close by.
A good rule of thumb is to have enough food and water for two or three days more than expected. Keep food properly refrigerated (in a temperature-controlled bag) and stored to prevent pests and other animals from finding it. An emergency supply of food and water is also a great way to prepare for a camping trip.
Protect from insects and the environment throughout your camping trip
Insect bites, dehydration, and sunburn are common medical ailments that largely impact unprepared campers or hikers. However, it is fairly easy to prevent insect bites and other environmental hazards with the following techniques:
- Wear protective and lightweight clothing to prevent UV rays, tick bites, and other insect bites. If if is hot out find lighter-weight options if possible.
- Apply sunscreen and insect repellent frequently during your trip. A good time to reapply either sunblock or bug spray is every two hours.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and keep a refillable water to safely store water throughout the day.
- Seek shade and use protective netting to keep insects away from your campsite.
Stay prepared with first-aid and similar medical precautions
During outdoor activity you may experience a sudden injury such as a bruise, cut, or scrape while hiking or camping outdoors. To avoid further injury make sure to bring a first aid kit and brush up on some basic first aid skills. If you need a refresher, then try finding a local course that provides free lessons.
Camping safety is an important part of any trip to ensure you get to enjoy Mother Nature without interruption!