Camping remains a popular activity for residents in northeast and central Wisconsin, offering an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. However, ThedaCare health expert Tina Bettin advises campers to prioritize safety and health during their outdoor excursions.
“There’s so much to love about camping,” said Tina Bettin, a Nurse Practitioner with ThedaCare Physicians-Manawa. “Whether you’re enjoying time in nature with family and friends or on your own, always stay prepared and make yourself aware of potential health and safety concerns.”
Bettin provided ten tips for staying safe while camping:
1. **Weather:** Stay informed about weather conditions and plan accordingly. Consider bringing an emergency radio for updates in remote areas where cell coverage may be limited.
2. **Sun/Heat:** Protect against sunburn and heat-related illnesses by using sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wearing protective clothing, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol.
3. **Fire:** Use designated areas for campfires, keep the area clear of flammable materials, never leave fires unattended, and supervise children around fires.
4. **Air:** Monitor air quality reports to protect vulnerable individuals such as children or those with respiratory issues.
5. **Water:** Ensure water safety by knowing swimming abilities within the group, having adult supervision for children near water, wearing visible swimsuits underwater, and using life jackets when needed.
6. **Animals:** Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife to campsites; if encountering large animals like bears while hiking, making noise can often deter them.
7. **Bugs:** Protect against mosquito and tick bites by avoiding standing water and tall grass areas; use EPA-registered repellents appropriately.
8. **Food Safety:** Keep foods cool when necessary; practice good hygiene before handling food; prevent cross-contamination among different types of foods.
9. **Bacteria/Viruses:** Maintain hand cleanliness using bottled water or sanitizers as needed but note limitations against certain viruses like norovirus without proper washing facilities available nearby
10. **Cuts/Scrapes:** Carry a first-aid kit tailored specifically towards individual needs including items such as adhesive bandages/tape/ointment etc., along with specific allergy treatments if required (e.g., EpiPens).
By following these guidelines from ThedaCare’s experts led by Nurse Practitioner Tina Bettin at Thedacare Physicians-Manawa facility campers can enjoy their adventures safely this season ahead!
