How to safely explore the outdoors
The safety factor of our modern world makes adventuring into the outdoors a little bit of a challenge. One should not have to decide between safety and exploring mother nature. Camping may seem incredibly scary if you do not know how to plan or navigate the risks. But that is how I am here to help! I have compiled a list of some of the top ways you can stay safe while venturing outdoors.
Environment
- Trust your gut
Your intuition will never lead you astray. It is critical to trust that feeling in your gut because your 6th sense knows what is up! - Be aware of your surroundings
Always be knowledgeable of what encompasses you. Know who and what are in your surroundings, where you can go in case of an emergency, and who to contact in an emergency. - Use AllTrails
Phone apps such as AllTrails enables campers to check recent trail conditions. This allows you to either be prepared for any changes on trails or to avoid those changes. - Formulate plans and share them
Be sure to tell someone when and where you are going. It is important to share with someone reliable the site host’s contact information, the times you’ll be gone, and whether you’ll have phone service.
Wildlife
- Pack food safely
Food is obviously essential while camping or going outdoors for extended periods of time. That being said it is important to stow it accordingly as to not lure any uninvited guests. - Be knowledgeable and cautious with wildlife
Even when trailing through established areas it is important to keep a lookout for any hazardous living thing. Be sure to research the areas you will be venturing through to be informed on what you may come across.
Fire
- Burn ban
When wildfire danger is high, burn bans protect persons and property. Before setting up for any fire, research to see if you are in a burn ban. - Clear area
Make sure there are no surrounding branches or vegetation that could catch fire. Research your camping location beforehand to see if they supply approved fire rings even during a burn ban. Along with that, only have fires in designated areas. - Nearby water
Always, always, always, have a bucket of water nearby to put out the flames if it goes out of control.
Supplies and Gear
- Carry a mini medical kit
Medical kits are perfect for when you are hitting the trails and encounter an unexpected bump.
Here’s a link for how to create one
Or purchase an adventure medical kit here - Look for reliable gear
Outdoor equipment may sometimes be an investment, but that is the best way you are ensuring quality products that will last you years to come.
Some of the most trusted outdoor brands are MSR, Big Agnes, Coleman, and REI.
For budget-friendly but reliable gear consider second-hand shops such as your local thrift stores, Poshmark, Depop, Thred-Up, and Facebook Marketplace. - Weather-appropriate clothing
Pack appropriate attire for the weather to prevent hypothermia in the winter or heat stroke in the summer. - Click here for a very detailed camping checklist!
Kids
- Write your site number or location on the childs' hands or on a rubber bracelet.
This is a simple hack to ensure that if kids do wander off, they can return to where is safe. - Use cones to your advantage
For younger kids, bring cones to be able to set visible boundaries.