1. Pack an Outdoor First Aid Kit
Your ability to deal with camping emergencies depends on how well you prepare. When you're camping, emergencies can start with something small. For example, left unattended, a blister may cause so much pain you can't walk. Stores like Wal-Mart and Sam's Club sell basic first aid kits with gauze, bandages, tape and alcohol pads. Outdoor stores like REI sell camping first aid kits, which include moleskin for blisters, sting reliever, pain relievers and other medications. The size you want depends upon the type of camping you plan to do. For backpacking trips, choose a small customized first aid kit in a lightweight container.
2. Prepare for the Worst
Having a first aid kit in your camping supplies may not be good enough. REI sells emergency kits such as the Lifeline Two-Person Emergency Disaster Kit. It contains enough food for 72 hours, emergency blankets, ponchos, gloves, waterproof matches, whistle, utility knife and many other safety products. If you plan to hike, you might want to take a GPS unit in case you get lost. Map your route before you go and set up check-in times with someone local. Have the person mark your progress on a copy of the map to narrow the area for search and rescue volunteers.
3. Take a Friend
Take at least one other person with you when you go camping to help you deal with emergencies. You may be able to handle an emergency like finding shelter by yourself. Other situations, like bandaging a gaping wound, may require another person. Make sure this person has a skill level and interests similar to yours. You don't want someone who can't keep up with you on a hike, or who doesn't like to do the activities you've planned. If you want to go alone, check-in at a ranger station or stay in areas with other campers.
4. Send an SOS
Most campgrounds provide a host, rangers or both to handle emergencies. If you are at a campground with a host, locate the host site before heading out on an activities. For wilderness areas, such as state or national parks, find the ranger stations. Many cell phones get reception in desolate areas, but you may want to take a short wave radio or transmitter. If it's night and you get lost, climb to a high point and set a flare. Tie a brightly colored poncho to the top of a tree or find some other way to establish a visual SOS. Pack some bright clothes to use as signals and to wear so that you'll be easier to spot.
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