Camping is a popular outdoor activity that offers opportunities to connect with nature, unwind and create lasting memories. According to research, over 7.2 million households love camping. However, it also comes with great risks and the need to always be proactive. In other words, you must always stay one step ahead in your safety precautions. Are you planning a camping trip anytime soon? Here are the five biggest camping risks and how to overcome them.
- Wildlife encounters
Wildlife encounters when camping can be fascinating, but they also carry potential risks. Many campers have experienced the reality of coming face to face with wildlife and getting attacked. According to experienced campers, it doesn’t matter whether the animal was unprovoked. Animals considered wildlife are naturally territorial; therefore, the mere sight of you may be interpreted as a threat. You can mitigate these risks by researching the local wildlife in the camping area beforehand.
Furthermore, learn all you can about potential dangers and appropriate actions to take when camping. For example, storing food securely on the camping ground is important to avoid attracting animals. Additionally, always keep a safe distance from animals and never approach or feed them. Remember to store all trash properly as you go about your daily activities. That will help reduce the chance of unwanted wildlife encounters. You must adapt your camping practices accordingly to reduce risks.
- Campfire safety
Campfires are integral to the camping experience but can pose a significant risk if not handled carefully. Always follow established guidelines and regulations regarding such accidental fires to overcome this risk. For example, always choose a suitable fire pit location when using this heat source. Additionally, remember to clear the area of any flammable materials, especially if your tent is close by. As a preemptive measure, always keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies. It will come in handy when you need to quickly put out fires before they spread any further. More importantly, never leave a campfire unattended because the slightest wind can cause an accidental campfire. When you’re done with the fire you used, ensure it is fully extinguished before leaving or going to bed. Some campsites have restrictions or bans on fire in their area. It is, therefore, necessary to find these out before being slapped with a hefty penalty. It helps to also know that dry and seasoned firewood can reduce excessive smoke and sparks at the campsite.
- Weather hazards
Reading the weather report or checking your smartphone or tablet app is good. However, what you must bear in mind is that weather conditions can change without warning. It doesn’t matter whether predictive weather patterns stated that it would be a clear, sunny day. The sudden change can pose risks such as extreme heat, thunderstorms, and severe cold. Although you cannot predict sudden weather changes, you can research the area you intend to visit to have an idea. For instance, protecting yourself from dehydration and sunburn would be a good idea if it is an area prone to extreme heat. That means increasing your daily water intake to replace the fluids you lose through sweat.
Moreover, excessive heat can also affect your hair, leading to frizz, dryness, and damage. If you already see signs of dryness from being out in the sun at extreme temperatures, repairing damaged hair with the right shampoo can help restore moisture and vitality. If your hair is still healthy, combat the risks by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Do not forget to apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the unpleasant side effects of the sun.
- Injuries and first aid
Outdoor activities inherently carry a higher risk of injuries because of your exposure to several dangerous elements. You can address this risk by taking a fully stocked first aid kit, but you must know how to use its components effectively. Ideally, the kit should include pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, bandages, and necessary personal medications. Additionally, learn basic first aid skills, such as treating minor cuts, sprains, or insect bites before your camping trips. Being prepared can help you respond quickly and appropriately to any possible injuries. You can go further to decrease the risk of injuries when camping. That includes using proper safety equipment for hiking, biking, or rock climbing. It helps to wear sturdy footwear with good traction to provide a firmer connection on slippery ground. Meanwhile, appropriate protective gear such as helmets and knee pads will come of great use when you need them. The campsite might be familiar territory to you, but always paying attention to your surroundings will be in your interest. The caution is to stay within your physical limits to reduce injuries.
- Navigation and getting lost
A New York Post report indicated that about 600,000 people get lost in America’s wilderness yearly. That is a huge number that shouldn’t be overlooked. Getting lost while camping can be a challenging experience, especially in unfamiliar terrain. Unfortunately, it happens a lot, and that is what you want to prevent at all costs. One way to avoid becoming a statistic is to bring a detailed camping area map. A reliable compass or GPS device will be useful too. Experienced campers say it is crucial to acquaint yourself with the map before heading to the physical location. Learn all you can about landmarks and trail markers to help you find your way back to familiar grounds if you miss your way. It is always advisable to let a trusted person know your camping plans and when you plan to return home. This way, any deviation from your scheduled timelines can cause someone to commence a search for you. Thankfully, the risk of getting lost will greatly diminish when you stick to designated trails. Lastly, if you have to venture into unknown areas, it will be best to do so with an experienced guide.
Remembering the above tips when embarking on your camping trip will help keep you and yours safe and have a fulfilling experience.
Feature photo credit: https://www.pexels.com/photo/silhouette-of-person-standing-near-camping-tent-2398220/