Enjoy the Great Outdoors

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jarrod Nelson
  • 5th Bomb Wing Ground Safety
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Enjoying the fresh air, clear water and wildlife? More and more people have headed into the great outdoors for rest, relaxation, adventure and restoration. In the past five years alone, more than one-third of adults in the United States have gone on a camping trip.

No matter what level of camping comfort one enjoys, there are always risks and hazards. On average, there are more than 30,000 injuries treated in emergency rooms each year and doctors treat an additional 75,000 camping related injuries per year. 

Camping styles range from primitive sites to recreational vehicles or even cabins. Lodges are a good alternative and are comparable to hotels but they are in a wilderness location. Cabins or lodges are usually broken down into interest categories like fishing lodges, hunting lodges, etc. Once an individual determines their destination, take the time to plan ahead before heading out the door and pitching a tent. 

The last thing anyone would want is to arrive at their campsite and realize they forgot a piece of gear or didn't bring the right equipment for what they plan to do. Different camping trips need different types of equipment and clothing. The possibilities range from hunting, fishing, kayaking, whitewater-rafting, backpacking and family needs. Make sure everyone has the right gear for the trip and it works properly!

Knowing what to pack for a trip depends on the season, location and activities one plans to include. Weather varies from season to season and from location to location. What type of clothing to wear should be a primary consideration and everyone should pack accordingly. For instance, wearing layers will allow everyone to adjust to different temperatures by adding or removing layers and waterproof clothing will prepare the wearer for different weather conditions.  Make sure to choose comfortable shoes or boots for walking to prevent blisters. To keep insects and ticks from getting underneath clothing, tuck the legs of ones pants into the socks and shoes. A cap or hat will also come in handy as a good shield to protect the head from too much sun. 

Here are 10 safety tips for choosing a campsite:

· Plan ahead and arrive at the campsite with plenty of daylight time remaining to identify hazards.
· Stay away from areas that may flood easily or get muddy if it rains.
· Be cautious. Look for sharp objects, broken glass or other foreign objects.
· Avoid areas with rocks or other hazardous terrains.
· Watch for bees, ants and other insects, along with poison ivy and other poisonous plants.
· Avoid areas with low tree branches or dead trees.  These could easily fall during gusts of wind.
· Look for an area with bushes or shrubs to block cold winds or provide shade in the heat.
· Pick an area with level ground and enough space for all belongings.
· Pitch tents away from the campfire.
· Build a campfire in a contained area to prevent it from spreading.

Keep the fun in camping.  Be sure to take the necessary safety precautions!