camping

Does your family enjoy outdoor recreation? Do you like to go hiking, bicycling, swimming or play group sports? No matter what kinds of activities you choose, you can limit the number of injuries that occur and have a good safe time.
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Camping is a wonderful family outing, but there are camping safety tips to keep in mind for everyone in the family. Being organized is especially helpful. Use a checklist when packing for the excursion to be sure you have everything necessary.

Some items are indispensable for camping safety. These include the following items:

1. First Aid Kit
2. Dry matches
3. Battery radio
4. GPS or charged up cell phone
5. Map of the area
6. Emergency gear such as a flashlight, knife, small hatchet, tarp, blankets, water and some food
7. Soap, dishpan, towels, pan or pot, plates, cups and utensils
8. A good survival manual or Scout Guidebook
9. Rain protection (tarp)
10. Extra clothing

Parents who want to enjoy camping with small children should remember one important rule: if the youngest child is not happy, no one else will be either! Plan for fun and a successful camping experience. Bring along some games and appropriate toys for the children. Have an easy to understand camping guidebook so you can show them interesting things in the area and around the campsite. Remind everyone to be courteous to fellow campers and respect the privacy of others in the campground.

Go over camping rules with the entire family prior to the outing. Stress camping safety. Be sure everyone has a “buddy” and that they understand the importance of staying close to their buddy. Explain what to do if they become lost or separated from the family. Plan a meeting place in case family members do become separated in the campground.

Upon arrival at the campsite, have everyone help set up the camp. Then take a short tour around the area. Point out important things such as where the bathroom and showers are, where the ranger station is, and make sure everyone knows the number of your campsite or its location in the campground. Stress swimming safety rules if there is water or a pool at the campground.

No child should be allowed to run around alone in any campground without adult supervision. Even teenagers require close supervision so they do not get into trouble. Indicate a physical limitation to the distance children may go away from your campsite. If you do not, they may head off on a woodsy trail and become lost.

Involve the children as much as possible in trip planning and meal preparation. When cooking, teach them fire safety by example. Family camping trips are exceptionally fun and make for fond memories when things go smoothly. Plan for success. Remember these simple camping safety tips can make the difference between a fun vacation camping and a disaster.