Camping 

Camping is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. But in the excitement of a trip, and because of the unfamiliar surroundings and ways of doing things, it can lead to life-changing accidents. 

Planning the camping trip 

Know the law! 

• Depending on where you are in the UK, different laws may apply whilst camping. Wild camping, for example, is not permitted in England and Wales without the landowners consent 

• Additionally, there may be byelaws you need to be aware of. For example, Byelaws exist in Scotland in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park 

Choosing your campsite 

• Is there parking nearby? Do you need to hike a long distance to your campsite and, if so, is everyone in your group able to make the hike? 

• Are there any park regulations you need to be aware of? 

When to go 

• Think about the time of year and make sure you have the appropriate equipment for the season 

• Always check the weather forecast – is heavy rain expected? Could there be a flooding risk in the area? 

What to pack 

• Always bring enough food and water for your trip 

• Ensure you have appropriate equipment for everyone in the group 

• Bring a first aid kit, insect repellent and a tick removal tool  

• If you’re planning to use portable beds for your kids, always go by the stated age group for the product. Kids’ 2-in-1 (combination) airbeds/sleeping bags, which are often promoted for camping, are not suitable for babies due to the risk of suffocation. 

Emergency contact 

• Ask a friend or family member at home to be your emergency contact and leave your camping itinerary with them 

• If there is an emergency at any point during your trip, call 999 for help. 
   

During the trip  

Setting up camp 

• Follow any local signs and advice 

• Always camp at a distance from any water sources. Rivers and streams can swell during the night. At the beach, the tide can come in 

• Avoid camping under big trees and rocks as these can fall and cause injury. 

Campfires 

As a learning tool, campfires can foster independence and an understanding of risk at an early age, along with understanding the basic science.  Make sure you follow these basic rules for campfires. 

• If you are thinking about having a campfire, check local news and advice for any wildfire risks and any byelaws that may prohibit the use of campfires 

• Set up your tent and sleeping areas away from any fires and ensure that any fire is completely out when not being used. It is a good idea to have a bucket of earth, sand or water to help put it out 

• Try to use a raised fire pit and bring your own wood – leaving deadwood where it is provides enriches the local ecosystem 

• Avoid using accelerants such as meths (metholated spirits) and petrols – these come with the risk of igniting quicker than expected. 

Cooking 

Be careful with cooking stoves as they use pressurised camping gas or meths. Always use the correct gas cartridge for your stove and check the manufacturer’s instructions for use and safe disposal. Stove and cartridges should be stored well away from any open fires. 

Carbon monoxide (CO) 

Be aware of carbon monoxide. Often known as the silent killer, you can’t see it, hear it, smell it or taste it. CO gas can build up quickly and at high levels it can cause collapse, unconsciousness and death. 

Anything that burns can give off invisible and dangerous CO gas. Remember:  

• Never use stoves, fires or disposable barbecues for cooking or warmth in an enclosed/indoor space with poor ventilation, such as a tent. Tragically, several deaths have happened due to families using barbecues or fires for warmth inside tents, or vehicles

• A warm barbecue or smouldering fire can still be lethal 

• If you suspect CO poisoning, get into fresh air and seek medical help. 
   

After camping 

Take any litter home with you and ensure you leave no trace of your visit.  Bins are not always available in the countryside and depending on where you are camping, Rangers can issue fines for littering.