BOISE – With the return of warm weather, thousands of Idaho families will take the opportunity to get back into nature. AAA is sharing some safety reminders to help prepare.
“A small mishap in a remote area can become a big deal,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “We hope that a few safety tips will come in handy as people make the most of the Great Outdoors this summer.”
Camping
- Make reservations early for the best spots, but some walk-ins/mid-week locations may still be available
- Wear layered clothing to adjust to changing temperatures and weather throughout the day.
- Practice setting up your tent, inflating air mattresses, and using a water purification system, camp stove, and starting a fire before you go. Make sure all the pieces are there before you hit the road.
- Bring plastic totes for food storage and wet or dirty clothes.
- Purchase firewood near your campsite to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Leave your campsite as you find it. Completely extinguish fires and take trash with you.
Hiking
- Don’t hike alone.
- Bring plenty of water, protein snacks, and basic first aid. Remember, a minor injury that would only be a small setback in the big city can be life-threatening in a remote area.
- Pack a compass and paper maps, a flashlight, sunscreen, a whistle, and bug repellent.
- Select a well-traveled trail and share your plans with others in case you fail to return on time.
- Hike within the limits of your fitness and stamina – for everyone in your group.
Trailer safety chains
- Use two crisscrossed trailer chains that can cradle the trailer hitch if it comes undone.
- If they are rusty or damaged, replace them.
- Verify that your trailer hitch is the right size and strength for the trailer it’s pulling.
- Never let them drag on the road – sparks could start a wildfire.
“Speaking of wildfire, never drive through or park in tall grass,” Conde said. “There’s a lot of dry tinder out there this time of year, and a single spark can quickly get out of hand.”