5 Safety Rules For Camping

Camping is for the most part a safe, fun, and health sport – but there are a few safety rules you should follow if you want your camping trip to be safe and healthy.

Safety Rule #1: Respect Nature

First, respect animals, and the nature that surrounds you. Be aware of any dangerous animals (such as bears or snakes) that live in the area you are camping in. Your policy should be to leave everything exactly the way it was when you came through – in fact, you should try to pick up any garbage you see so you can make it better.

Safety Rule #2: Water Goes Downhill

Be aware of potential flood areas when you’re setting up camp – don’t camp in the bottom of ravines or right next to a creek. Flooding can be dangerous, so make sure you avoid the hazardous areas. Mountainous areas are especially susceptible to flash floods.

Safety Rule #3: Look Around

Third, when you set up camp you should check for any potential dangers. Always look overhead and see if there are dead tree branches above the area where you will be camping. They could fall in the night, directly onto your tent. That is an unpleasant way to be awakened (to say the least), so just avoid areas where that is possible.

Safety Rule #4: Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires

Just like Smokey Bear says, you should always be careful with fire. If you are even slightly irresponsible with your campfire, you could end up burning down large tracts of forest. Make sure you know proper campfire technique so that you can contain it and burn it in a controlled manner. Never start a fire unless you have water handy to help control it.

Safety Rule #5: Cool, Clear Water

Finally, be careful of what water you drink. You should never drink anything unless you’re 100% sure it’s purified. You don’t want to be stuck in the middle of the wilderness with painful stomach convulsions. Whether you bring your own water, boil it, or use a purifier, just make sure you aren’t ingesting any dangerous water.

If you follow these 5 rules safety rules, you’ll be well on your way to ensuring a safe and fun camping expedition for all involved.