With the May Long Weekend peeking its head around the corner we wanted to remind people that while we love (absolutely love) stretching our camping legs, getting out into the wilderness and taking in huge gulps of fresh air, there is a small matter of safety and responsibility to keep in mind.
At Bucars RV, we’re the first to say: “Go hard and enjoy it!” But all within reason, right? The first outing can be super exciting and, with the winter we’ve had, everyone will be even more excited and eager to get out and enjoy the nice weather (we hope it’s nice anyway).
Here are a few tips to keep in mind while gearing up for your May Long Weekend camping adventure:
Get your rig ready
Nothing is worse than getting all the way out to your camping destination and not having everything you need. Yuk! Get your rig ready the week before by retrieving it from storage, dewinterizing it, fixing up any repairs, stocking with all your gear and dry foods, running the systems to ensure they work, and checking and charging your RV batteries (here’s a good video to help you do that!). Now you’re ready to go!
Take your time and take it easy
We chatted with the good folks over at STARS and they reminded us that if you’re in a rush, you’re more likely to make a mistake. “In all of 2013, we responded to 133 road collisions (not including motorcycles), 75 sports and recreation incidents (snowboard/skiing, bicycling, camping, hunting etc.),” said David Fairbanks of STARS.
And take it easy while you’re out having fun; especially when running the ATV. David says they responded to 73 ATV-related emergencies in 2013. That’s crazy!
Keep the parties to an acceptable “my grandmother would approve” level
We love a good party, but we also love when a good party doesn’t prevent us, in the campsite over, from hearing each other speak or keep from bouncing off the walls from the pounding bass. If you’re going to whoop it up, keep it cool. Keep music and noise down to a decent level. Shut it down or take it inside around the 11pm marker. Keep in mind there could be families with young kids or babies trying to get to sleep. And hey – do the courteous thing and invite your neighbours over : )
Be prepared
We also asked David from STARS how first responders to an emergency should act. His advice is: “One thing you must remember is to stay calm and get help as soon as you can. If you have first aid training, put it into play. If not, try and find someone that does. But you also have to remember not to put yourself into any danger. Make sure to survey the area for hazards that my put your own health in jeopardy. Don’t do anything if you are unsure.” Sounds good to us!
STARS provided other tips to keep safe during the Long Weekend:
- Wear safety gear, especially a helmet when engaged in activities that have a risk of head injury.
- Ensure you have the proper training and education to operate ATVs before using them.
- Do not operate any vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol (including prescription drugs that may cause impairment).
- Insist that everyone wear lifejackets when in a boat.
- When in remote areas inform someone about your location and anticipated departure and arrival times.
- Drive the speed limit.
- Leave with plenty of time to reach your destination. If you are in a rush, you are more likely to make a mistake.
- Practice smart fire safety. Do not improperly burn fuels and items that may cause an explosion. Also, always walk around the fire at a distance to prevent the chance of falling into the flames.
Have other tips or advice? We’d love to hear about it. Have someone you know heading out for the weekend? Send them this note. The more people thinking: “RV safe?” the better. Happy Long Weekend!
