What To Bring On Outdoor Camping

People go camping more frequently during the summer because they know they have all of the outdoor camping essentials they need in the storage shed at home. Some groups might head out with less equipment than others might but since camping essentials are meant to take care of basic needs, people know they have enough equipment on hand to remain at a campsite for a day or two without feeling a need to go home because they are hungry or cold.

Outdoor camping essentials such as heaters would only used at campsites in the backyard or in camping spaces at recreation areas that have camping spaces equipped with electrical hookups. Due to safety precautions, an outdoor heater is unsuitable during the rainy season, but it will take the chill out of the air and warm the interiors of tents that surround the campsite. Most campers rely on fire pits to keep warm and consider these camping essentials as an alternate way to cook meals too. When fire pits are lit, other camping essentials such as a fire extinguisher should be within reach at all times.

Other camping essentials that will make living on the trail a lot homier are propane cook stoves, pots, and pans that are perfectly sized to fit within the small space on the range top. Some campers rely on less fancy cooking essentials and bring only a cast iron skillet and an odd pot to prepare all meals in. Cast iron cookware has been a camping essential that allowed Westerners to cook on the trail and the cast iron metals held many a meal warm for hours to allow herders to eat at unseemly late hours.

Safety is paramount for all camping activities and flashlights and first aid kits are camping essentials that always seem to get packed away first. Some campers use alternate light sources such as car headlights to erect tents in the middle of the night after riding in a car for hours. First aid kits are designed with products that cleanse and bandage wounds. Tents are portable home structures and are considered the most essential outdoor camping equipment a family can transport to the campsite.

The tent size will depend on how many campers will sleep inside each one, but these camping equipment essentials can hold as many as 12 campers. These camping essentials can be transformed into three or four rooms at times to create living spaces during daylight hours and sleeping space at night. Other outdoor camping essentials will ensure that all campers are kept warm throughout the night. Sleeping bags are zippered cocoons of bedding that allow campers a good night’s sleep and a waterproof barrier if inclement weather is outside the tent.

Campers will always be focused on hygiene while roughing it in the woods and will often take outdoor camping essentials such as toilet paper on every excursion where restroom facilities are not available. Insect repellent and sun protection products will be on all trips because these outdoor camping essentials give campers a barrier against pesky mosquitoes and sunburn. Many campers will buy fashionable outdoor camping essentials to keep the sun out their eyes. Tinted sunglasses will ensure that campers can see where they a going at all times.

James Brown writes about Sun and Ski Sports.com coupon code, Mountain Gear coupon code and Backcountry coupon code

June 23, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

Canvas Tents: Durable and Affordable Housing Options

Most camping tents these days are made of nylon or polyester. However, canvas tents have always been highly valued for their durability and affordability.

Canvas is made of cotton today, though through much of its history hemp was used. Canvas has been utilized as a durable outdoor material for hundreds of years. Besides being used to make tents, canvas is used for sails and other outdoor equipment. When wet, canvas swells and becomes exceptionally waterproof. It is able to withstand conditions that other materials would not tolerate, making it ideal for long-term use.

Canvas tents are not often used for the casual camper. Nylon and polyester tents are much lighter and easier to set up and take down. Canvas tents are used for long-term or semi-permanent encampments. When a camp is going to be stationary for a long period of time, the weight of canvas becomes less of a drawback.

The fibers of canvas tents are tightly woven, making it the perfect shade from harmful sun rays and high temperatures. Canvas tents also protect inhabitants from strong winds and other inclement weather. The durability of the material means that it won’t suffer from rips and tears as easily as other fabrics.

One of the most popular uses of canvas tents today is in large, long-term camps. Summer camps, retreats and other outdoor events use canvas tents to house participants. Canvas tents are generally much less expensive to build than traditional buildings, and they can be moved to new locations if necessary.

Hunters and fishers also enjoy the great qualities of canvas tents when enjoying their sports away from home. Instead of spending thousands of dollars on a wood-walled cabin, a semi-permanent canvas tent can be erected for a very small cost. Canvas tents can be constructed in a short amount of time and aren’t subject to building codes.

Military installations also make good use of canvas tents. Again, the affordability, durability and transportability of canvas tents make them an attractive option for this environment. In fact, military groups all over the world have used canvas tents to temporarily house their troops.

Environmentalists and homesteaders also know the best qualities of canvas tents. When settling on undeveloped land, many modern settlers choose to live in canvas tents. For some, this is a temporary arrangement while they construct a more permanent abode. For others, a canvas tent is a long-term living arrangement complete with electricity and running water.

Due to the durability of canvas tents, they can be modified for use as vacation homes and used comfortably for many years. Some luxury canvas tents include bathrooms, wooden floors and formal windows in addition to electricity and running water. These luxury tents are not meant to be taken down and moved often like camping tents. However, if the need arises to move a luxury canvas tent, it can be done with ease.

Although not many of us would be happy to live in a permanent canvas tent home, no matter how well equipped, they are comfortable and fun to stay in temporarily. Canvas tents don’t have the flimsy feel that many lightweight tents tend to have. They can provide four-season comfort without the expense of a permanent building. The affordability and ease of setup mean that you can get your canvas tent up quickly and get right to enjoying your favorite outdoor activities.

Warren L. Smith offers a fountain of information on Camping, such as Camping Tips, Family Fun, Hunting, Fishing, Tents, Equipment, and Wilderness Tips. For the best, up to date information, go to: http://www.CampingBreak.com

June 18, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

How to Shop for and Select Camping Tents

For as long as people have been living indoors, we’ve been escaping to the great outdoors for a break from regular life and a new perspective on the universe. The fresh air and physical exertion that accompany a camping trip are among the best ways to relax and enjoy your free time.

Along with camping goes a whole host of special equipment and supplies. The sporting goods store can seem like a foreign country when you’re new to outdoor activities. It’s not easy to break through all of the lingo and myriad options to get the camping equipment that you need.

Tents are an especially tricky area for beginners. There are weird numbers and letters designating different features, and there are so many different shapes and sizes that it can make you want to take up gardening instead.

Never fear! Pick out the perfect tent for your first camping excursion by being armed with just a few basic pieces of information.

First, know how your tent will be carried. Will you be driving right up to the campsite, hiking, biking or boating? If you’re driving, frame tents are the first choice of many campers. They are usually large enough to walk around in and can feature separate bedrooms, cooking facilities and a living space.

Ridge tents are also a perennial favorite among campers who don’t have to carry their equipment very far. They feature a horizontal post that is held up by two vertical posts, with canvas stretched over all of them. The resulting triangular tent is great for pleasant weather, but isn’t suitable for rain or high winds.

Hiking tents and pop-up tents are great for campers who will be using bikes, boats or sturdy boots to get to their campsite. They are both lightweight, easily collapsible and small enough to carry on one’s back.

The sizes listed on camping tents are typically listed as 1-man, 2-man and so forth. This refers to the number of campers that can be squeezed tightly into the tent, not necessarily the number of campers who can fit comfortably into the tent along with all of their gear, muddy boots and wet dogs.

Some larger tents have a public area along with separate sleeping chambers. These public areas are a great place to spend time when the weather outside isn’t nice enough for sitting around a fire and gazing at stars.

If you are going to be using your tent in inclement weather, such as snow or high winds, you’ll need a specialty camping tent that is designed to withstand these conditions. Camping tents that will be used in harsh weather should usually be double-walled and constructed of reinforced fabrics.

One of the most important qualities to look for in a tent is water resistance. The water resistance is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). This number refers to the amount of pressure that the water can exert on the material. Higher numbers are more water resistant and will keep you dryer on wet and stormy nights.

Armed with this basic knowledge about camping tents, you should be able to comfortably shop for a new tent. If you still aren’t sure what you are looking for, take a trip to your nearest sporting goods store and explain your circumstances to a salesperson. With any luck, you’ll find exactly what you are looking for. When you do, you’ll be well on your way to a great first camping trip.

June 17, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

Tents Make Family Camping Fun

When was the last time you got out some tents and went into the woods for a weekend of family fun? If you don’t have a quality tent, but you’re eager to get the kids outdoors, shopping online for tents makes the process quick and easy.

Make sure you allow enough room for everyone to feel comfortable in their home away from home. Certain cabin tents will allow some members of your family to fully stand up inside the tent, which makes changing your clothes or simply stretching out in the morning a little bit easier. Allow at least 30 square feet of floor space per person.

There are many different types of tent structures. A dome tent has three or more intersecting hoops at the top, which create a dome structure. They are strong but sometimes difficult to assemble. A wedge tent is a more popular option for hikers and bikers because of their ease of assembly. An old, pup style tent is a good example of an a-frame tent, but these have been phased out by the popularity of dome, cabin and wedge types.

Other types of tent structures include pyramid, avian and hoop. An avian tent provides quick shelter, but it is open to the ground below. A hoop tent forms a tunnel shape around the camper. A pyramid structure has one main pole and lots of different rooms.

When selecting the type of tent that’s right for you, be sure to consider the difficulty of assembly. If you are a first time camper, or even if you have some camping experience, you don’t want to spend hours and hours putting together a difficult tent instead of enjoying time with your family. So, look at buyer reviews online to find firsthand accounts of what setting up your prospective tent is really like before you buy.

Also consider the time of year you’ll be using your tent. Certain tents are better in winter weather than in summer. Others are three season tents that hold up well in rainy and windy weather. Be sure your tent will match your needs, depending on the time of year and part of the country in which you plan to camp.

Once you’ve established the basics, it’s time to look at the details of the tent you want to buy. Be sure the one you buy is made of quality materials. Fiberglass or sturdy aluminum poles are a necessity. Color coded poles make set up easier when it comes time to assemble the tent. Waterproof fabrics keep your family comfortable and dry if you face inclement weather on your camping trip. Rip-stop materials are found in high end tents and increase their durability.

Another important factor to consider is ventilation. A tent can get very warm when it is zipped up for the night, which means ventilation will be key for comfort in the morning and early afternoon. Skylights or windows that open with sturdy zippers allow stuffy air out and fresh air in, while still keeping bugs and debris out of your tent.

Of course, price is something to consider when shopping for your tent. Remember that you’ll likely use a quality tent for many years, which offsets some of the expense over time. Many different tents are available in different price ranges, so pick the one with the best features for your family that fits in your budget.

June 17, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

Tenting It: Why Canvas?

Tenting has changed over the last decade. Canvas once prevailed as the fabric of choice for tent construction. Over the years, though, new technology introduced the use of other materials in tent-making. Nylon is popular today, along with polaris, gala and realite. Each material has unique qualities and may serve well under various conditions. However, many die-hard campers still swear by canvas tents. Here are a few of the reasons why:

* They’re strong. Canvas, which can hold up against the wildest of circus elephants, is also ideal for use in camping tents. It’s perfect for the hunter who spends days in the wild. It can take all of the abuse that nature throws its way. It will withstand wind, thunderstorms and even hail. Even curious forest creatures will have trouble penetrating a canvas tent.

* They’re durable. The average life of a nylon camping tent is about three to five years, depending on frequency of use. By contrast, a canvas tent may last 10 years or more.

* They’re breathable. Canvas is made from cotton. Unlike other common materials used in tent manufacturing, cotton breathes. Nylon, polyester and other fabrics do not allow air to pass through easily. This can create a sauna-like atmosphere inside tents made from these materials. By contrast, canvas allows for the exchange of air between the interior and exterior of the structure.

Canvas is so durable that it is also used in the construction of some semi-permanent structures. Canvas covers are frequently used over traditional cement foundations and wooden frames. These “cabents” last for decades and provide a way to maintain low-cost housing. In poor countries where extreme weather variations are rare, canvas or part-canvas homes are the norm. They stand up well to moderate weather conditions and are a cost-effective alternative to bricks and mortar.

When choosing a canvas tent, look for the following features. They will ensure that your canvas tent will get years of use:

* Strong seams. A canvas tent is only as strong as its seams. Make sure they are double-stitched. Not only does this create a more streamlined seam, it adds an extra barrier against separating and tearing.

* Durable zippers. Often the first thing to go on any camping tent is the zipper. Make sure that zippers are top-quality. Nylon zippers with large teeth that can be zipped up and down easily are ideal. Zippers should be securely sewn into the fabric.

* Durable flaps. Inspect door and window flaps closely. Flaps should have strong mechanisms with which they can be secured, whether opened or closed. Toggle-style flaps should be securely fastened to the canvas in order to withstand pressure from inclement weather. Flap zippers should be strong and durable.

* Weatherproofing. As already mentioned, canvas holds up very well under many weather extremes. Do you expect that you’ll be using your tent in very rainy conditions? In these situations, extra weatherproofing may be necessary. It may need to be treated with a rainproof coating. Another option is to purchase a tarpaulin that can be hung or draped over top of the entire structure to keep rain out.

Canvas tents come in a variety of sizes and styles, with many options for features. This makes it easy to find one that perfectly suits any need and any use.

June 17, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

The Basics on Camping Tents

When it comes to selecting a tent for your camping needs, there are a few things to consider. With the wide variety of makes and models available, your decision can seem overwhelming. However, you can simplify the process by knowing what you need before you start to shop.

One of the first things to consider when buying a camping tent is size. Think about how many people will be in the tent and the amount of supplies you will keep in the tent. You want to make sure you have enough room to be comfortable. If you’re planning an extended trip where you’ll need a lot of supplies, you might want to purchase another tent just for storage.

You also must consider the weather. Base your buying decision on what the climate is normally like where you plan to camp. When you’re going to an area you’re not familiar with, check what the usual precipitation levels, temperature ranges and wind speeds are. All of this will help you choose a camping tent suitable to that area’s climate.

Price also should be a consideration. Choose the best quality material that is within your budget. You want the material to be as durable as possible so you get years of use out of your tent. You need to consider maintenance, as well. Look for quality workmanship. This is not only in the actual tent material, but also in the poles, pegs, rope, tensioners and accessories. You want the best quality in all elements of the tent. This enables you to avoid repair and replacement costs over the life of the tent. You might as well pay more upfront for a better tent than have to pay for repairs, or even a completely new tent, after just a few uses.

Another thing you may want to consider is ease of assembly. If you are camping alone, you want a tent that you can set up without much labor or strain. When you know you will camp with other adults, you can look for something more elaborate since you’ll have the extra help. Ease of transportation is something else to think about. Do you need a camping tent you can carry easily on your back? There are many durable, lightweight tents on the market today. A compact, lightweight tent is perfect for backpackers going to areas not accessible by vehicle.

Look for reinforced eaves when buying a camping tent. The eaves handle most of the pressure on camping tents. When tightening roofs with ropes and stakes, the eaves bear the strain. Reinforced eaves are especially important for winter camping. Tents tear along the eaves and grommets when heavy snow collects on the roof. Reinforced eaves can prevent this from happening.

Look at purchasing a rain fly for your camping tent. A rain fly covers the roof and walls of your tent, which provides several benefits. Air collects between the rain fly and the tent roof, which becomes insulation in cold weather. A rain fly protects a canvas camping tent from ultraviolet rays, which can cause the canvas to break down. A rain fly can also prevent tree sap, bird droppings and other foreign substances from falling directly on the roof of your tent.

Above all, consider good, old-fashioned comfort when buying a camping tent. You know what you like and what makes you feel comfortable. Look for tent features that suit your needs. Your camping experience will be much more enjoyable when you love where you’re living.

June 17, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

Pop-up Tents: Traveling Light Made Simple

For the true outdoorsman, only tenting will do. Forget the RV. Getting in touch with nature means leaving the microwave and HDTV at home. There’s nothing better than listening to crickets chirping in the stillness while you’re inside a great canvas tent. Whether your tent is a pop-up or other type, tenting is one of the best ways to commune with the environment.

Unfortunately, some people still have the outdated image of the bulky, circus-style tents of yesteryear. Unwieldy steel poles and the sheer weight of the canvas discouraged some from even trying camping. Luckily, camping technology has come a long way. Today’s tents are lightweight, but sturdy. Plus, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to put one up. Pop-up tents are exceptionally easy and convenient to use. They can even be assembled by one person.

Pop-up tents are exactly what the name implies. They are erected by pushing poles through fabric channels. They’re so simple, in fact, that they are often referred to as “self-erecting” tents. The poles are typically made of light, flexible materials, making them nearly foolproof to work with.

Pop-up tents are designed to be extremely compact. The poles usually break down to shorter lengths. They may separate completely to create shorter sections. They may also “fold” down via a cord that runs inside the hollow tube that comprises the pole. The fabric itself folds easily. Pop-up tents are the perfect choice for a tenting excursion that includes a hike. Compact and light, they add only minimal weight to a backpack. They’re also a good choice when space is limited, such as when being transported in a smaller vehicle.

When choosing a pop-up tent, there are two main factors to consider: size and camping conditions. First, decide on size. How many people will likely be sleeping in the tent at one time? It’s important to read labels carefully. Pop-up tents may sleep anywhere from one to eight people. The label will tell you exactly how many people it was made to hold. However, you may need to make some adjustments. For example, a tent that says it sleeps “four” generally refers to four average-sized adults. A family of two adults and three small children may still fit comfortably inside. Similarly, a tent for “four” may not be big enough for four tall men. Always check the dimensions of the tent along with the number of people it sleeps to get a more accurate gauge of size.

Next, in what type of conditions will you be using your tent? For example, if you frequently camp on windy mountaintops, you should avoid hoop tents. Hoop tents may not be strong enough to withstand a powerful wind. Instead, they are ideal for backyard camping or for use in enclosed campgrounds. Ridge tents are a good choice for backpacking trips, offering headroom without bulk. For trips when space isn’t an issue, frame tents are an excellent selection. They work well for families and have ample interior space.

No matter what the style, pop-up tents are a breeze to erect. Even the least mechanically-inclined of campers will have no trouble enjoying the great outdoors with a self-erecting tent.

June 17, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

How to Know Which Camping Tents are Right for You

The great outdoors: for centuries we’ve headed outside when we want to relax. There’s no better way to change up your routine and get away from the rush of everyday life than camping. You don’t need fancy, expensive equipment to enjoy yourself on a camping trip, but the type of tent that you use is an important part of the experience.

When choosing a camping tent, the different varieties can be confusing. Do you need a three-season tent? Do you need a hiking tent? What size tent do you need? What shape is the best?

The type of camping tent that you choose will depend largely on how you plan to use it. If you are going on a single summer camping trip by yourself, a small and basic tent may be right for you. A small tent doesn’t allow much room for moving around or storing supplies, but it is easier to carry and set up.

Campers who don’t have a lot of experience with camping equipment will find that pop-up tents are easy to use. They also allow more time for having fun. When you don’t have to spend hours figuring out how to set up the tent, you can get to other activities sooner. Pop-up tents are especially popular with young campers since they don’t require much skill or strength to set up or take down.

If you plan to hike to your destination, a hiking tent is ideal. Hiking tents are lightweight and waterproof, making them excellent shelters for most camping situations. Many hiking tents are also low-profile. This makes them a great choice for camping in inclement weather since they won’t be greatly affected by high winds. They are among the most expensive choices in camping tents, but hiking tents are usually of very high quality.

When you are taking your family or friends along with you, a multi-room tent is your best bet. Multi-room tents feature ample space for your entire party along with separate sleeping chambers. Although the thin walls don’t allow for complete privacy, they do provide some personal space. You can fit anywhere from two to eight people in standard multi-room tents, and some specialty tents can sleep even more campers.

Camping tents also come in several different materials. Lightweight nylon or polyester can make wonderful weatherproof tents, but they do tend to degrade as they age. Cotton is a traditionally popular and rugged material for tents, but it is very heavy. Cotton isn’t well suited for some camping tents because of its weight. However, it is superb for military encampments or other semi-permanent settings.

Another thing to consider when shopping for camping tents is the ground cover or groundsheet. The groundsheet is built-in on most camping tents. This configuration protects the tent from water seeping in between the walls and floor. Some hiking tents utilize separate ground sheets so that the weight of the two pieces can be shared between two hikers. This feature is handy, but may not provide much protection from precipitation and insects.

With so many types of camping tents to choose from, it’s easy to get lost. These recommendations are just the basics to get you started on your quest for the perfect camping tent. There are plenty of resources online to point you in the right direction for finding the camping tent that fits you, your lifestyle and your camping plans perfectly.

June 17, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

Choosing a Camping Tent: Is Expensive Always Better?

Camping tents are as diversified as cars. They range from basic, no-frills models to high-end models loaded with features. What you choose will depend on your budget and your specific needs. But when it comes to making a final decision, do you get more if you spend more?

The answer to that question depends on many variables. However, one general rule applies to camping tents as much as to any other product on the market: you get what you pay for. This doesn’t mean you have to spend a small fortune. A person who is looking for a new car mainly to commute to work doesn’t have to spring for a Cadillac to ensure quality. Similarly, an avid camper needn’t spend more money on features or brand names to get a better product.

Assess your own needs. This will help you decide exactly what to buy. Then stick to comparing tents that meet those basic needs. There’s no reason to compare economy models with luxury models. If you only need something basic, compare basic to basic. For example, when comparing two-man dome tents, look at the types of materials that went into the manufacturing. Be sure that you are actually paying for quality materials, not just brand names.

Where, how and how often you camp also can help you decide how much to spend on a tent. Use this short assessment to get started. If you camp:

* Infrequently (once or twice per year): Occasional campers probably won’t need to invest in a heavy canvas tent. Choose a tent that is lightweight, easily erected and well constructed.

* Often (several times per year): The more you camp, the more your tent will be exposed to weather. The more exposure it gets, the faster it will wear out. In this case, you should consider a tent that is weather-treated. You also should make sure that all of its components are made of sturdy materials. Nothing is more frustrating than having to buy a whole new tent because one tent pole snaps in the wind.

* Mainly in campgrounds: Generally speaking, campgrounds are sheltered from weather extremes. In addition, the terrain usually isn’t rugged and you aren’t as likely to encounter bugs and wild animals. Camping in moderate conditions like these means that a moderately priced tent will likely be suitable.

* In the backwoods: Hunters and those who prefer to camp off the beaten path might consider stronger materials in a camping tent. The terrain is typically more rugged than one might find at the average campground. There may be rocky ground or high winds to contend with. Wild animals also can be a problem. Look for heavy-duty materials that will withstand wind and rain and that won’t tear or snag easily.

* Via backpack: A major concern for backpackers is space and weight. Campers who travel on foot should look for a small tent with lightweight components. Be sure to compare materials when tent shopping. Some materials that are lightweight are very strong and durable. Others are not. Read labels carefully and familiarize yourself with various types of materials.

The most important thing to remember when choosing a camping tent is to not compare apples to oranges. In other words, compare economy to economy and luxury to luxury. Determine your needs, then compare only the tents that meet those needs. The one that comes out the winner will give you lasting quality at a fair price.

June 17, 2008 | Filed Under Camping | Leave a Comment

How To Enjoy Camping Safely

We go camping to escape the rat race, to relax, and to learn about the natural world.

Tragically, some of nature’s cruelest lessons are learned when we are trying to become better acquainted with her, as we are occasionally reminded when people drown in a flash flood while on a camping trip.

Like any other human endeavor, successful and safe camping adventures require planning and cautious forethought.

Before Leaving

* Pack a first aid book, and a well stocked kit. Bring warm clothing layers and rain gear for bad weather.

* A short list of necessities includes: cooking utensils, insect repellents, lanterns, tool kit, sunscreen, matches in a waterproof container, toilet paper, soap, hooded sweatshirt for children, a hat, and a compass.

* Bring bottled water for drink or mixing with food. Always assume stream and river water is not safe.

* Learn as much as you can about the area’s weather patterns and hazards before you leave home. Plan accordingly. Take a radio to get weather updates.

* Have a fire extinguisher, or pail of water, available at all times.

* Teach and practice the STOP, DROP and ROLL method of putting out a clothing fire.

* Take foods that don’t require refrigeration or careful packing, e.g., peanut butter and canned foods.

* Bring emergency telephone numbers and a cell phone. Even better, carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon, which can be rented.

* Read the labels before buying a tent. Only buy a tent that is flame resistant.

Setting Up Camp

* Arrive well before sundown to select a suitable campsite.

* Camp on high ground. Do not camp on gravel bars or near a river or creek bank, no matter how dry it appears.

* Beware of trees with dead branches, and low areas that could become muddy in heavy rain.

* Inspect the area for poison plants, nests and other dangers.

* Clear away any rocks, roots or debris that might present hazards.

* Pitch your tent at least 15 feet upwind from grills and fireplaces.

* Leave at least a three-feet area clear of leaves, dry grass, and pine needles around grills, fireplaces and tents.

* Store flammable liquids only in safety cans, a safe distance from your tent, camper or any source of heat or open flame.

* Apply insect repellent, as recommended by your doctor.

At Your Temporary Home

* In stormy weather, avoid solitary tree lines or small groupings of trees. Go into the deeper forest.

* If lightning gets close, crouch down with your feet close together (this minimizes the surface area that ground current might be able to flow through).

If you have a dry sleeping pad available, stand on it to further protect yourself. Do not lie flat or sit down. Stay as far away from any metal as you can.

* Use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns inside a tent.

* Develop a fire escape plan with your family.

* Use a funnel to pour flammable liquids. Wipe up spills.

* Fill lanterns and stoves a safe distance downwind from heat sources.

* Do not use a flammable liquid to start a fire.

* Don’t wear loose-fitting clothing around fire.

* Build a campfire where it cannot spread. Never leave a burning fire unattended. Put it out with water and soil. Be extra careful on windy days.

* Don’t pour fire starter on a smoldering fire.

* Do not dump hot charcoal on the ground where someone can accidentally step on it. Place coals in designated ash cans.

* Wash your hands well before handling food. Use disposable wipes if safe water is limited, or antibacterial liquid cleaner.

* Never barbecue inside a tent, camper or vehicle.

* Store food in coolers or in your vehicle, out of reach and smell of animals. Don’t encourage wild animals into your campsite by offering food.