If You’re Going Camping This Summer, Make Sure You Know How To Stay Safe

There’s nothing quite like a camping trip. The fresh air, the flexibility, the freedom to be truly at one with nature. But although you can forget about the pressures of everyday life while you’re miles away from civilization, there are still certain things you need to be vigilant about. These tips on how to stay safe whenever you head for the great outdoors will become your survival bible, so take note.

20. Berries

Hardcore naturalists may think it’s cheating to bring your own food on a camping trip. But unless you’re an expert on the fruits of the forest, then it’s probably best to steer clear of snacks that grow in the wild. No matter how inviting they look, berries are a particular no-no. But what if you were entirely lost and had no choice but to chow down? Luckily, there are a few rules that could help you out in a bind.

Forage with caution

The general rule seems to be that almost all white and around half of red berries are poisonous. So if you really needed to eat, blue, black, or purple berries reportedly have fewer toxic varieties. Still, it’s a minefield if you choose to snack on something you’ve spotted growing wild. Some are entirely harmless, but others can result in serious illness. So unless you absolutely have to, you’re probably best heading to the nearest grocery store beforehand!

19. Landslides

Landslides and avalanches can be fatal for people walking or pitching up close to a steep slope. Even the most well-trained in avoiding these natural disasters can get caught out by a sudden shift in the earth. So what can us regular folk do to avoid running into trouble? Aside from the more obvious tips of looking out for avalanche-marked areas and not setting your tent below steep cliffs or slopes, there are a few other fail-safes worth memorizing. 

Do your homework

If you’re headed on a riskier route, then you should wear a helmet and make sure you’re carrying some kind of beacon — just in case. But most importantly, whether it’s a snow-filled trip to the mountains or a camping trip to the sea shore, always research the local area before leaving home. According to the United States Geological Survey, there are a few telltale signs that a landslide might be imminent. Namely, new cracks in the ground or paving stones, a faint rumbling that grows in volume, and trees cracking or other unusual sounds. So if you notice any of these, then steer clear!