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Tragically, some of nature's cruelest lessons are learned when we are trying to become better acquainted with her, as we are occasionally reminded when people drown in a flash flood while on a camping trip.
Like any other human endeavor, successful and safe camping adventures require planning and cautious forethought.
Before Leaving
* Pack a first aid book, and a well stocked kit. Bring warm clothing layers and rain gear for bad weather.
* A short list of necessities includes: cooking utensils, insect repellents, lanterns, tool kit, sunscreen, matches in a waterproof container, toilet paper, soap, hooded sweatshirt for children, a hat, and a compass.
* Bring bottled water for drink or mixing with food. Always assume stream and river water is not safe.
* Learn as much as you can about the area's weather patterns and hazards before you leave home. Plan accordingly. Take a radio to get weather updates.
* Have a fire extinguisher, or pail of water, available at all times.
* Teach and practice the STOP, DROP and ROLL method of putting out a clothing fire.
* Take foods that don't require refrigeration or careful packing, e.g., peanut butter and canned foods.
* Bring emergency telephone numbers and a cell phone. Even better, carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon, which can be rented.
* Read the labels before buying a tent. Only buy a tent that is flame resistant.
Setting Up Camp
* Arrive well before sundown to select a suitable campsite.
* Camp on high ground. Do not camp on gravel bars or near a river or creek bank, no matter how dry it appears.
* Beware of trees with dead branches, and low areas that could become muddy in heavy rain.
* Inspect the area for poison plants, nests and other dangers.
* Clear away any rocks, roots or debris that might present hazards.
* Pitch your tent at least 15 feet upwind from grills and fireplaces.
* Leave at least a three-feet area clear of leaves, dry grass, and pine needles around grills, fireplaces and tents.
* Store flammable liquids only in safety cans, a safe distance from your tent, camper or any source of heat or open flame.
* Apply insect repellent, as recommended by your doctor.
At Your Temporary Home
* In stormy weather, avoid solitary tree lines or small groupings of trees. Go into the deeper forest.
* If lightning gets close, crouch down with your feet close together (this minimizes the surface area that ground current might be able to flow through).
If you have a dry sleeping pad available, stand on it to further protect yourself. Do not lie flat or sit down. Stay as far away from any metal as you can.
* Use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns inside a tent.
* Develop a fire escape plan with your family.
* Use a funnel to pour flammable liquids. Wipe up spills.
* Fill lanterns and stoves a safe distance downwind from heat sources.
* Do not use a flammable liquid to start a fire.
* Don't wear loose-fitting clothing around fire.
* Build a campfire where it cannot spread. Never leave a burning fire unattended. Put it out with water and soil. Be extra careful on windy days.
* Don't pour fire starter on a smoldering fire.
* Do not dump hot charcoal on the ground where someone can accidentally step on it. Place coals in designated ash cans.
* Wash your hands well before handling food. Use disposable wipes if safe water is limited, or antibacterial liquid cleaner.
* Never barbecue inside a tent, camper or vehicle.
* Store food in coolers or in your vehicle, out of reach and smell of animals. Don't encourage wild animals into your campsite by offering food.
* Teach children not to disturb or provoke any animals.
* Shake out all clothing before putting it on.
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