| No matter what the season, camping can be a | | | | * Pack the right clothes. The right camping gear |
| wondrous experience and a welcome relief from the | | | | includes the right clothing. Layer clothes for optimum |
| cramped confines of city life. With the proper | | | | comfort, so you can add or remove layers as the |
| preparation and camping gear, hikes and overnight | | | | temperature changes. Be sure to pack a lightweight, |
| stays in the outdoors can rejuvenate the mind and | | | | waterproof jacket and pants. |
| body. Unfortunately, poor planning can result in | | | | * Know where you're going. Getting lost in the |
| accidents, exposure, and injuries. To get the most | | | | wilderness is frightening and potentially deadly. Make |
| out of your camping experience, follow these simple | | | | sure you have detailed maps of the area, including a |
| guidelines: | | | | topographical map, and consider taking along a GPS |
| * Expect the unexpected. Before you depart, give | | | | system and two-way radios. Also pack a whistle, so |
| some thought to worst-case scenarios and how you | | | | you can signal if necessary. |
| would deal with those emergencies. For example, | | | | * Beware of the critters. Insect bites and stings can |
| discuss with your traveling companions the options | | | | ruin a great trip. Use DEET-based insect repellent, and |
| for an encounter with a bear, or what to do if one | | | | re-apply as needed. At the end of each day, check |
| of you gets lost. | | | | for ticks - especially behind the ears, under the arms, |
| * Communicate. Email copies of your itinerary to | | | | and in the groin area - as they are carriers of Lyme |
| family members and post on one your refrigerator. | | | | disease. When selecting a site to stow your camping |
| Be sure to sign in and out when using a campground, | | | | gear, stay away from the berry bushes, a prime |
| and sign in and out with a ranger prior to starting a | | | | foraging area for bears. |
| wilderness hike. Should something go amiss, your | | | | * Practice fire safety. Fire is always a potential |
| movements can more easily be tracked. Consider | | | | hazard. Keep your campfire as small as is feasible. If |
| purchasing two-way radios for you and your traveling | | | | possible, utilize a fire pit that others have previously |
| companions to use on your trip. If someone does get | | | | used. Make sure the pit has a ring of rocks around it, |
| lost, they'll have a way to communicate. | | | | and never build a fire pit where there are |
| * Bring the right camping gear. Don't let sudden | | | | overhanging branches. Keep a bucket of water near |
| weather changes catch you off-guard. Waterproof | | | | the fire, and have someone station near a burning |
| backpacks and tents, as well as cold weather | | | | fire at all times to keep watch over it. |
| sleeping bags, will minimize your exposure and ensure | | | | With the right camping gear and preparation, your |
| a pleasant camping experience. | | | | getaway is sure to be a success! |