Camping is not just about hot dogs, marshmallows, and pitching a tent. When a family decides to spend their summer vacation in the great outdoors, there are many hazards and safety concerns to plan for. Exposure to fire, sunlight, bugs, water, and woodland animals are just a few. If camping in a remote location, kids wandering off and getting lost might be another. Here are some safety rules and tips to teach children when camping.
Fire and Water Safety
Fire and water safety are two really important points to focus on when camping. Make sure that young children understand how far they can go when swimming in a pond, lake, or pool. Check out a campground ahead of time and be certain that there are full time lifeguards on duty. Pack the appropriate flotation devices and swim aids and make sure at least one person in the family knows CPR.
Campfires are one of the best aspects of camping, but they are an obvious hazard. Go over the rules of fire safety with your children. Never light a fire too close to a tent, camper, or any flammable camping gear. Keep kids at a safe distance from flames and sparks. Put fires out with water before bedtime and never leave a fire unattended.
Hiking Safety Tips
Be prepared if the family is planning a hiking adventure. Bring a backpack with first aid supplies, sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, and water. Wear appropriate clothing which may include a hat or visor, sunglasses, and layers. Tell a neighbor, family member, or friend before setting off on an extensive hike. Stretch ahead of time, start out slowly, and take rests when needed.
Bicycle Safety Tips
The most important piece of safety gear to remember when biking is the helmet, and in many states across the U.S. it is the law to wear one. If the family plans to bring bicycles while camping, do not forget this important safety equipment. Insist that the kids wear their helmets even if they are riding close to the campsite and revoke the riding privilege if they do not follow this important rule.
Additionally, do not let a child venture out alone. Many trails are not safe for biking because they have steep, rocky hills or have not been cleared properly. Make sure that he or she is paired up with other siblings and friends before biking on a trail, and also check out the trail ahead of time to be certain that it is bicycle friendly or marked as appropriate for biking.
Raccoons, Bears, and Other Animals
Raccoons and bears can be deadly if provoked, and many wild animals may even carry the rabies virus. Teach children to keep a respectable distance away from smaller woodland creatures, and to go inside a car if they spot a bear. To keep bears away from the campsite, follow these basic camping rules:
- Do not throw food waste into the woods around the campsite.
- Do not leave garbage bags or cans outside at night.
- Do not dispose of human waste around the campsite.
Additionally, do not run if a bear is encountered. If a bear or other animal wanders into the campsite, instruct a child to tell an adult and then slowly back away, seeking shelter inside the family vehicle. Making loud noises with a horn or a pan and stick can scare a bear away.
Poisonous Plants
State park websites often have poisonous plant listings that can be printed out and taken along for the trip. The best thing to do to be safe however, is to teach children that it is not okay to eat anything found in the forest or field without first asking an adult.
General Camping Rules for Families
Establish a set of camping rules for the kids to go by that includes all of the above safety precautions along with knowing where youngsters are going to be at all times. Provide maps of the campground to older kids in case they lose their bearings. Arrange a time and meeting place if the family decides to split up. If possible, provide cell phones for a periodic check-in and in case of emergencies.
For nighttime strolls to the bathroom facilities, flashlights, reflective clothing, and glow sticks are all great items to have. Lastly, do not forget to keep perishable foods packed in ice and replenish the cooler regularly to avoid spoilage.
Camping is a wonderful way to spend quality time in the outdoors with family. Keep the kids safe during the trip by establishing appropriate family camping rules, inspecting the campground and site ahead of time, and teaching kids how to avoid and/or handle the many outdoor hazards they may face while camping.
For more information about camping, read How to Plan a Summer Camping Trip with Kids.
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