PUT SAFETY FIRST ON YOUR NEXT FAMILY CAMPING TRIP

For many Canadian families, summer holidays marks the perfect time to get away and relax on a family camping trip. To ensure your camping trip is filled with fun experiences and good memories consider doing the following:

• Check with the campground before leaving to see if there are any closures or other restrictions. 
• Check the forecast before leaving and plan accordingly.  
• Check the Internet to research your destination if you are not familiar with the area. 
• Check your vehicle to be sure it is ready for your camping adventure.
• Let someone know where you’ll be camping and when you will return. 
• Make sure you leave early enough so there will be daylight to help you set up camp.
• Take along a first aid kit. Include antiseptics for cuts and scrapes, tweezers, insect repellent, pain relievers and sunscreen.
• Don't forget to pack a map, compass, flashlight, knife, waterproof fire starter, personal shelter, whistle, warm clothing, high energy food and water.
• Look thoroughly for potential hazards such as glass, sharp objects, large ant beds, poison ivy and hazardous terrain.
• Build your campfire in a safe area. Never leave it unattended. Same applies to your camp stove.
• Never leave food out in the open and always dispose of garbage properly so you do not attract unwanted insects or animals. Pack it in the car at night.
• Wash your hands thoroughly, particularly before handling food, to prevent the spread of bacteria.