Tips to Stay Safe at the Campground

June is national safety month so we thought it would be a good opportunity to review some tips on how to stay safe while in the RV and at the campground.  While camping can be a fun activity to get family and friends together in the great outdoors, it’s important to take certain precautions so that you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Fire Safety

Part of the fun of camping is enjoying time around the campfire, but you must make sure that safety is a priority.  Make sure to use the provided fire pit at the campground and ensure that the surrounding area around and above the fire pit is free of debris. Walk around the campfire and make sure there are not trip hazards.  Keep water nearby in case the fire gets out of control and don’t leave the fire unattended.  Make sure to completely the extinguish the fire when you leave, use dirt or water to curb the flames and then stir the embers, making sure it is completely out.

When camping with kids, it is important to set a perimeter around the campfire, we use camp chairs, that way kids have to walk behind the chairs, preventing accidental falls near the flames.

Pet Safety

There may be times when you need to leave your pet in the RV unattended and want to make sure they remain safe.  You may worry, but know there are pet safety monitors available where you can check on your pets and the temperature of the RV while you are away.  Here are some other tips for keeping your pets safe at the campground.

• Keep food & water both inside and outside for your pet so they can stay hydrated.
• Make sure dogs are always on a leash.
• Have up to date rabies shots, remember to have a copy of the certificate on hand as many campgrounds will request it.
• Be aware of local emergency vets in the area in case your pet gets sick or injured while away.
• Have the pets medicine on hand and make sure they are up to date on their flea/tick medicine.
• Bring a tick remover on hand, as ticks can be common in grassy or wooded sites.

RV Safety

Traveling in an RV can create certain hazards.  Make sure to know the height and weight of your camper so that you can travel appropriate routes.  Stay up to date on the weather forecast, high winds can interfere with towing.  Having certain items on hand on during your RV camping trips will help you if a problem does arise.  We suggest to always have the following;

• First aid kit
• Bike helmets
• Emergency triangles
• Spare tire/jack
• Wrench
• Surge Protector
• Tire Pressure Monitor (especially for longer trips)

Prior to travel, always check the expiration date of the carbon monoxide detector and fire extinguisher.  Also change the batteries in the smoke detector every year.

Once you get to your campsite and are ready to park the RV, get out and thoroughly check the site to determine if there are any obstacles which would prevent you from parking safely.   Once parked, check for dead trees or branches that may be above the RV.

Make sure kids know their campsite number in case they get lost or need to contact 911.  Also have a meeting place to go to at the campground, in case you get separated.

Most importantly, be educated, if you are new to RVing get expert advice or take the education classes that are offered through some our branches at The Camper Connection.  We want you to have a safe trip!