Summer this year is “different” to say the least. Activities that we associate with the warmest season (concerts, baseball games, BBQs) have been off-limits due to COVID-19. Luckily, Oklahoma is allowing a favorite summertime activity that you can enjoy with your family.
While campgrounds and lodges remain closed, the state’s Tourism & Recreation Department has announced that state parks and public land areas are open to tent and RV campers.
But before you rush to pack your sleeping back and marshmallows, it’s important that you are properly prepared. Here are 5 tips for staying safe while camping this summer.
1. Pack a first aid kit.
While camping may seem perfectly safe, you never know when an accident will occur. That’s why it’s so important that you are prepared for the potential of injury to yourself or others. You can prepare by packing a first aid kit. Be sure to keep your kit in a box or bag that is waterproof. At a minimum your first kit should include:
2. Practice campfire safety.
Campfires can be great for keeping you warm, cooking food, and staving off certain creatures. But they can also be extremely dangerous when not properly kept. Remember to build your campfire a minimum of 15 feet from anything that could catch fire such as trees, shrubs, and tent walls; always tend to it; and make sure that it remains contained. You can do so by keeping the fire small and setting it in a fire pit or other designated area. Finally, always keep a bucket of water nearby in case of an emergency as well as to pour over all of the embers before going to sleep.
3. Wear sunscreen – then reapply.
Some summer days are sunnier than others, but that doesn’t mean cloudy days can’t be just as dangerous for your skin. UV rays, which can burn and cause harm to the skin are strongest during the middle of the day. During that time try to remain in the shade, but regardless, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and lip screen with a minimum of SPF 15. Also, don’t forget to reapply frequently.
4. Stay hydrated.
When you’re thirsty you may grab some water, but did you know that you should be doing that while you’re not thirsty too? In order to remain hydrated, you should be sure to drink water consistently all day long. By the time you feel thirsty, you’re most likely already dehydrated.
5. Educate yourself on wildlife safety.
While camping you may come across a variety of interesting wildlife. But while some may simply be beautiful to see, others can be extremely dangerous if you were to encounter them. That’s why prevention is key. Avoiding touching or feeding wildlife, and always make sure that you store your food in a car, or at least a bear-safe container.
The Attorneys at Graves McLain Can Help.
If you have been injured in an accident while camping due to the negligence of someone else, you should not have to pay for his or her mistakes. The attorneys at Graves McLain have substantial experience in representing individuals in personal injury accidents.
There is no charge for Graves McLain to review your case. If we represent you, we will handle your case on a contingency fee basis (calculated as a percentage of the recovery we obtain). Call an experienced Oklahoma personal injury attorney at Graves McLain at 918-359-6600 today. Trust our team. We’re here to help.
Graves McLain – Serious Lawyers For Serious Injuries
When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.
