Fire Fighting Equipment

5 Fire Safety Tips While Camping

Camping is one of the most popular outdoor activities participated by both young and old. It is considered as a great family adventure. A camper typically prepares one’s things at least a week before camping date to make sure that nothing is left out.

Aside from the basics food, water, shelter, and first aid kit, campers must also bring something to protect them against incidence of fire. Camping involves the use of flammable materials and solutions; it involves the making of campfires where campers gather to sing songs and roast marshmallows. Since fire fighting equipment is not usually included in the list, and firefighters could be miles away, how would a camper keep a fire safety camp?

1. Bring a portable fire extinguisher; ideally an air or water extinguisher and not a CO2 fire extinguisher as this is ideally manufactured for electrical fire risk and flammable solutions. However, air and water fire extinguishers are good for bush fires as well as campfires.

2. Do not sit or stay too close to the campfire. Fire is unpredictable and difficult to control. Sitting too close to the campfire accounts for 68% of campfire burns, a predicament which could have been easily prevented. Campfire burn incidents should not be taken lightly as this only proves the potential danger of fires, even those that are believed to be safe.

3. Do not use petrol or fuel if possible. Petrol and fuel are flammable liquids that pose danger if handled improperly. It could easily get you burned. Instead, use dried leaves, branches, wood, paper, and matches to build a campfire.

4. Check current camp fire regulations. Some campsites have designated areas for building campfires, others provide an old oil drum where campers build fires; and while others allow open fires, it is prohibited in some locations. If you are in an open space and open fires are allowed, it is still best to take some precaution. Location is a factor that should be considered. Campfires should not be built near trees and bushes, but in open spaces. Otherwise, it will easily burn anything it comes in contact with.

5. Bring some fire safety equipment such as a fire blanket. Fire blankets can be used to subdue fires in case of emergency. Another is the 12-hour lightstick, which comes very handy and cool at night. Or, you might prefer bringing a LED ultra-power torch, which works like a flashlight, except for its powerful light.

For a safe trip to and from camp, a car fire extinguisher is a good fire protection equipment to have inside the vehicle. One can never be too careful outdoors. The wind, sun, and the environment could work together, making your outdoor adventure perfect or a disaster.

It is never too expensive to ensure one’s safety. By including these items in your things-to-bring list, you are taking the first step towards safe camping. Outdoor activities should be fun and safe. It should create wonderful lasting memories, and not horrible ones. The key to a safe and unforgettable adventure lies on one’s preparation.