Labor Day often marks the final days of summer, and many of you may be ready to head out for the last camping trip of the season. With this is mind, here is a short list of safety tips and activities to help you enjoy this final nature outing.
1. DON'T FORGET THE SUNBLOCK! It may not be as hot up in the hills as we have been experiencing down here in the city. Just because it is not hot, does not mean that sun is not burning the tender skin of our babes (or yours, for that matter!) Having a major sunburn by the age of 9 can increase the chance of skin cancer later in life by nearly 45%
2. When you have children that like to wander off, it's nice to have BOUNDARIES set up in advance. What parents can do is mark their children's boundaries clearly by tying pieces of ribbon or even crepe paper (the bright colors work best) around trees, rocks or other things found around your campsite and explain in a "family meeting" that children are not to go past the markers.
3. Remember a FIRST AID KIT. I can honestly say that I have not been on one camping trip where someone didn't get hurt in one way or another... a lot of the time it was me. Really though, it's nice to have some stuff on hand. Everyone's first aid kit will vary, but all of them should contain at least alcohol wipes, various sizes of band-aids, antibiotic ointment, instant cold pack, and for those with severe allergies, Epi-pens are very literally life savers.
4. Some type of WATER SHOES, even if you are not camping near water. A lot of children like to walk barefoot from place to place while outdoors. Remember that, although you might be generous and responsible enough to pick up garbage from your excursion, the people before you might not have been. In the past, we've come across fish hooks, broken glass, jagged cans and more. Walking in the water with protection on is recommended too because these hazards, along with others, can hide under sand, under leaves, between rocks and in other inconspicuous places. Water shoes may not completely protect you or your child but can reduce the risk of serious injury.
Have a great camping adventure with your family!
