6 ways to stay safe while camping-Panergy

1. Be aware of any risks around your tent
You’ve arrived at your destination and are about to hammer in the first tent peg. Before you do, make sure you have a look around and consider the risks in the immediate area.

Avoid camping directly under large gum trees. Some species are susceptible to dropping large branches at any time. The last thing you want is a branch dropping on top of your tent in the middle of the night.

Consider where water will drain in the event of rain. Avoid camping in creek beds and over ditches where water may pool.

If you’re camping with children, consider setting up away from potential dangers like rivers, creeks, or steep drop-offs.

And always look out for ant nests! It’s no fun setting up your tent on top of a horde of angry ants.

Top tip: Find and book your perfect campsite on the National Parks South Australia website.

2. Bring plenty of food and water
Make sure you bring plenty of water with you for drinking and washing. Most parks are not connected to mains water, so especially after dry conditions, you cannot rely on water being available in the park’s rainwater tanks. Bear in mind, tank water is not treated so it’s not suitable for drinking.

If you are taking food that needs to be kept cold, invest in a quality esky and pack enough ice. Food poisoning and camping don’t go well together!

Top tip: Consider how you’ll store your food. Air-tight containers are important to keep bugs from crawling in. You don’t want your morning corn flakes to come with bonus protein!

3. Be aware of the weather
Keep an eye on the weather and pack accordingly. Look at both the day-time and night time temperatures as warm sunny days can turn into frosty cold nights. You may need sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen during the day and thick socks, trackies, and a warm jumper at night.

Top tips: Check out 8 camping essentials to take on your next trip

4. Have First Aid equipment available
Many of our parks are in remote locations, so medical aid can be far away. It’s a good idea to camp with someone who has First Aid training, and an even better idea is to be trained yourself.

In the event that something goes wrong and you need to treat an injury, a comprehensive and well-stocked First Aid kit is essential.

When heading out on a bushwalk, you might not be able to carry a big First Aid kit. Grab some supplies to throw in your backpack such as bandages and some antiseptic cream to clean up any scratches, bites, or cuts you might pick up on the trail.

5. Know what services are available
Do some research to know where help is available. Knowing where the local hospital is located and how to get there could save precious time. If you’re camping in fire danger season, take some time to work out your evacuation plan.

Many national parks have no or limited mobile phone coverage. Have a look at your network’s coverage map to work out where you can go to make an emergency phone call if you needed to. It’s also a great idea to let friends and family know of your plans and when you expect to be home.

Avoid getting lost by having access to maps, especially if you are heading out on bushwalks. Park maps are available to download for free from the National Parks South Australia website and the Avenza Maps app.
6. Keep your eye out for wildlife
As well as keeping an eye out for drop bears, remember it’s the smaller critters that will likely cause the most problems. Mosquitoes, ticks and other insects can bite and cause irritation and, in rare cases, carry diseases.

Using insect repellent, and wearing long-sleeved tops and long pants will help prevent bites. Make sure you keep the fly screens on tents closed whenever possible and don’t leave open water and drink containers around your campsite as they can attract thirsty insects.

During the warmer months, it’s possible that you will come across snakes. Snakes are generally shy and will not attack unless provoked, so it’s best to leave them be. Remember, even little snakes can be dangerous.

Tips for avoiding snakes include sticking to the trails, making a bit of noise when you walk and wearing long pants and closed shoes.