From a day hike to camping trip, or from a bike ride to picnic, spending time outside this summer is a great way to connect with nature, relax, and enjoy a mental escape. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure a memorable experience.

Here we highlight camping safety tips, which also apply to many outdoor activities.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a novice, these tips will help you stay safe and avoid common hazards.

Camping Safety 101

Choose the Right Campsite

• Location: Select a site that is level, dry, and free from hazards like falling branches or unstable ground. Avoid setting up near bodies of water prone to flooding, as well as tall grasses and bushes that could be tick and other biting insect habitat.
• Regulations: Follow all campground rules and guidelines. Check if the area requires permits or reservations.

Prepare Adequately

• Equipment: Bring appropriate camping gear, including a sturdy tent, tarps, sleeping bag and mat, and weather/terrain-appropriate clothing and footwear. Before you head out, inspect all your equipment to ensure it’s in good condition.
• First Aid Kit: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications. Make this a priority! You won’t be upset if it goes unused.
• Food and Water: Pack enough food and water for your trip, and then pack extra in case of unexpected events. Use bear-proof containers if camping in bear country.

Fire Safety

• Fire Pits: Use designated fire pits or rings for campfires. Keep fires small and manageable.
• Extinguishing: Always fully extinguish fires before leaving them unattended or going to bed. Douse with water and stir the ashes until cold.
• Fire Restrictions: Check for any fire bans or restrictions in the area and adhere to them.

Wildlife Safety

• Food Storage: Store food in airtight containers and away from your sleeping area to avoid attracting animals.
• Distance: Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Never feed or approach animals.

Navigation and Communication

• Maps and GPS: Carry a map and a GPS device. Familiarize yourself with the area and plan your routes.
• Communication: Inform someone of your camping location and expected return time. Carry a fully charged mobile phone or a satellite communication device. Fully charged portable battery packs are a plus!

And a few more…

• Stay Hydrated: Whether camping or doing any physical activity this summer—drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can lead to dehydration.
• Take a Break: Take a moment to rest and recharge in shaded areas to avoid prolonged sun exposure. Use natural shade whenever possible, and when camping, there’s nothing that says you can’t take a daytime timeout in your tent.
• Watch Weather Conditions: Check the latest weather forecast before heading out. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and seek shelter during storms. Wet gear can truly dampen outdoor fun.

Preventing and Treating Bug Bites

Prevention

• Repellents: Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Apply to exposed skin and clothing.
• Clothing: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks to reduce exposed skin. Light-colored clothing can make it easier to spot ticks.
• Netting: Use mosquito netting around sleeping areas and over hats if insects are particularly bothersome.

Treatment

• Cleaning: Clean the bite area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
• Ice Pack: Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling and itching.
• Medications: Use over-the-counter antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream to alleviate itching. For severe reactions, seek medical attention immediately.

Specific Bug Bites

• Mosquitoes: Clean the bite area, apply anti-itch cream, and avoid scratching to prevent infection.
• Ticks: Remove ticks promptly with tweezers, grasping close to the skin, and pulling straight out. Clean the area and watch for signs of Lyme disease or other tick-borne illnesses.
• Bees and Wasps: Remove the stinger by scraping it out with a credit card. Apply ice and take antihistamines for swelling and itching. Seek medical help for severe allergic reactions.

For more camping safety advice and reminders, check out these resources from the National Park Service, Forest Service, KOA Camping, and Boy Scouts of America. And for more on bug bite prevention and treatment, visit the CDC and the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

And it’s worth highlighting that vital in the manufacturing of so many products that enhance camping and outdoor safety is natural gas.

UGI Energy Services is pleased to support the production and delivery of natural gas to help the sustainable manufacturing of countless outdoor products; from synthetic fabrics for tents and clothing to high-performance plastics and composites used to make helmets, harnesses, and protective gear…and so much more.

By following the above safety tips and being prepared, you can ensure that your time outdoors is both enjoyable, safe, and an experience you’ll want to repeat.

Remember, the key to a successful trip is preparation, awareness, and respect for the environment and wildlife. Happy camping!