Safety Tips for Campers During a Heatwave

Camping during a heatwave can be dangerous, to say the least. As much as I love being outside and camping out in the woods, a heatwave can certainly cause concern. While it’s not recommended to take your family camping during a heatwave, like the one we’ve had on the east coast for the last few weeks, you should be sure to follow this list of camping safety tip that will help you during a heatwave.

Stay hydrated

I hate to sound like Captain Obvious, but you gotta stay hydrated. During hot temperatures, your body may not feel thirsty, but trust me, it is. Drink plenty of clear liquids even though you’re thirsty.

The lack of fluids in the body can lead to death. Camping is one of the greatest activities to do during the summer but is ever so dangerous without proper hydration.

Pay attention to your body

Heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses can be deadly and we don’t always notice them on our own. Pay close attention to the people around you and your own body. Speak up and encourage your crew to speak up if they experience any of these symptoms.

Symptoms of heatstroke

• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Lack of sweat
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shallow breathing
• Muscle weakness
• Hot, red, or dry skin
• Nausea or vomiting
• Throbbing headaches
• Confusion, slurred speech, or staggering

If you or any of your friends/family experience these symptoms during a heatwave, get them out of the heat immediately and drink clear fluids. Do not give them ice-cold water. Ice-cold water can send a person suffering from heat exhaustion or stroke into shock. Try to drink clear liquids that are room temperature.

Pack the right camping gear

One of the most important safety measures for camping during a heatwave is to have the proper camping gear. We have tons of resources that include camping checklists, and camping supplies to help keep you safe against the heat. Some items of camping gear that will protect you are:

• Water bags: Camping water bags are easy to transport as they don’t take up much room while hiking and moving away from camp.
• Emergency space blankets
• Camping tarps for shade
• Well ventilated tents
• Water bottles
• Camping shower
• First-Aid kit

If you plan on camping at all for the rest of the summer, there is no better time than now to take advantage of our end of the heatwave summer sale on all camping gear and kayak accessories. Have fun and stay safe in the heat!