Camping in the wild? Here’s how to stay safe
By Waithera Mbuthia
Still on that camping vibe.Although camping seems like a fun outdoor activity, it can get complex with so many details to put into consideration. But don’t worry, as you plan for your camp, here are some safety tips you need to put into consideration.
Your health and fitness comes first. As you go camping, you need to stay in good health throughout for you to enjoy. If you are considering a camping trip, getting a travel-appropriate first aid kit is essential to your health. Find out how to make a home-made first-aid kit here.
The best camping first aid kit should come loaded with products to assist with any possible complications, including medicine and emergency equipment that can save lives.
Choose your camping partner wisely
Even if you have complete confidence and are a master camper, you should definitely go with a buddy or two. This way the camping is more memorable also, anything can happen while out camping. You need to make sure that you are compatible with the camping partner you pick. You need to be with someone you know got your back as much as you got theirs. Camps with compatible and problem-free people have always been more enjoyable
Hydration
Water is the most important, vital need. We should not forget to take enough water with us and drink water regularly.Instead of drinking water when we are thirsty, it is much more important to drink water regularly. Carry lots of it too for your camping activities, and remember to pack water containers for refills.
Pitching your tent
While determining the area we will camp, we always try to find the right and most beautiful place. Sometimes this search can be misleading. Most of us would prefer camping at the water’s edge since it has a beautiful view, right? However, this is not a safe camping spot. Wild animals visit these water sources at night to feed and some to hydrate. If you set up your tent near these water sources; you may encounter these creatures.So set up your camp at a distance of at least 600-700 feet away from the water.And lastly, never pitch a tent on the edge of the running water. In case the heavens open and it pours, then water will definitely get into your tent.
Watch out for wild animals and insects
Do not forget that we’re the guests in the forest or land we will go to. Therefore, act as a guest and respect the natural habitats of living things. Do not leave food, drinks, and fragrant things in your camping area before sleeping. Look for tracks on the ground, stay away from animals’ crossing points. Remember that small creatures can cause problems as much as large creatures. The bite of a small tick insect might even result in death. Note the following to avoid this situation. Be sure to put on long-sleeves, and to keep at the center of the paths while walking. Most insects are on the leaves and bushes. You can also tuck in your pants into your socks.Insect repellents are also a good idea.
Information
Ensure you inform your family or friends when and where you will be camping. Also the duration. If you are able to keep a charged cellphone with you, the better.
Feeding
Avoid eating all the edibles you find in nature.The right food choice is very important when camping, but there are even more important things such as the source and storage conditions of these foods.Canned foods are better to carry and preserve. Some fruits and mushrooms found in the wild could be poisonous, so avoid them. Note that not all water may be drinkable, despite looking clear. So, avoid it by all means.
Campfires
For a camp to feel complete, there always has to be a campfire. The fire could be a disaster in itself if not taken care of. Do not build a campfire next to old and low trees, to avoid spreading. A place with rocks is a good choice. When going to rest, it is best to put the campfire out and not leave it unattended.
Be prepared in case of storms.
In the forests, stormy weather is a common occurrence. You should be prepared for it. And also watch out for it. Incasethis happens, you should stay away from the rivers and go to a safer place such as a cave or a car. If you don’t have cars of caves nearby tighten the ropes of the tent to make it more stable and robust. You should erect your tent away from old trees, they may crack and fall on the tent in a stormy weather.
In case you are wondering how to plan for family camp getaway, here’s how.
