Even with the best precautions, accidents and injuries happen while camping. Make sure you’re prepared by learning first aid, and following some simple safety tips.
Camping Risks And Injuries
A camping trip is a great way to spend time outdoors and embrace wild spaces. The fresh air, the sound of nature, and the animals you rarely see in cities – these are just some of the reasons to pack the bags and head for the bush.
But like any outside activity, camping is not without risks. Amid the excitement of spending time with nature, don’t forget the potential for accidents and injuries that comes along with that.
Insect bites, sprained ankles, cuts, wounds, and sunburns are just a few of the potential health issues – all of which can be made worse without access to a first aid kit. Also, consider the environmental factors – check the weather before going, and see if there is any risk of fires, lightning, flash floods, or tornadoes in the area.
A camping trip is not only about having fun. It also requires awareness of your environment and a fair degree of responsibility.
5 First Aid Tips For Safe Camping
Accidents happen, yes, but this doesn’t need to stop you from going camping on a summer break or holiday.
New to camping? Here are some first aid related tips to ensure a positive, safe and fun time outdoors.
Bring A First Aid Kit
There are many reasons to pack a first aid kit when heading outdoors, such as the possibility of scrapes, minor cuts, broken bones, and the risk of rashes or allergic reactions. It is best to prepare for the unexpected while in the wilderness.
Learn about the essential items to have in a first aid kit and make sure to pack them in the bag.
Research On Weather Conditions
One of the best parts of camping is spending time in the great outdoors. But the worst can happen if you don’t do your homework and come properly prepared. First Aid issues such as dehydration, heat stroke, hypothermia, and frostbite can occur without enough knowledge of the environment you’re going to and the weather conditions expected.
Check for weather updates – and bring plenty of water, just in case. Watching the water intake, especially in the hottest summer, is crucial to preventing dehydration.
Skin Protection
A bad sunburn or severe rash can ruin a fun camping holiday.
Sunburn is a type of visible damage to the skin from too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. Apply sunscreen and use protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses to avoid burns from UV radiation.
Skin rash could happen to anyone upon coming in contact with a plant or insect that can cause a reaction. For treatment, be sure to wash the affected area and use the ointments necessary to reduce pain and swelling.
Protection Against Mosquitos
It can be unpleasant to get feasted on by mosquitos while hiking down the trail or pitching the tent.
Insect and mosquito bites can bring redness, pain, or itchiness to the skin. However, these are not the only risks with these pesky pests. In worse cases, it can transmit infection and bacteria that cause health complications.
Use an effective insect repellent to ensure a bite-free, worry-free camping trip. Take extra precautions by wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks. Spend time inside the tent, especially at dusk and dawn when insects are particularly active.
Protection Against COVID-19
The novel coronavirus or COVID-19 still exists across Australia. Despite the gradual loosening of the restriction, it is best to continue taking extra precautions when staying at a campground.
Follow social distancing guidelines and restrictions on the number of people allowed in an area. Practice good hygiene practices at all times. The facilities and management put these rules to ensure everyone’s safety.
As a camper, we must strictly follow these rules set by the local health authority in your state. Make sure to have the following safety items handy and ready to use. These include soap, hand sanitiser, masks or face covering, and disinfecting supplies (wipes, rubbing alcohol.)
Safe Camping With First Aid Pro
Camping is an enjoyable way to spend time outdoors and witness the great Australian landscape. While accidents and illnesses can happen, they can be preventable by following the first safety tips above.
With the proper knowledge, you can respond to ailments and injuries on the campground. First Aid Pro offers a first aid training course with CPR to help recognise potentially deadly conditions and provide life-saving assistance.
Enrol in a first aid course and have a fun and safe time in the great outdoors!
