Camping season is here, and we're excited to gear up and enjoy the great outdoors. But with record heatwaves already scorching the Pacific Northwest and West Coast, this summer is shaping up to be dry -- creating dangerous conditions that can lead to wildfires. You can help keep the outdoors safe for everyone by practicing fire safety at home and on your next camping trip.
The Recreate Responsibly Coalition has put together a set of guidelines for getting outdoors safely and responsibly during wildfire season:
The #RecreateResponsibly Wildfire Edition Guidelines:
- Know Before You Go - Know how to prevent wildfires by properly using outdoor equipment, learning campfire safety, and checking for fire restrictions and closures.
- Practice Physical Distancing – Give people space - it’s critical to not crowd firefighting efforts. Wildfires are no-drone-zones.
- Plan Ahead - Know what fire restrictions are in place at your destination, and check if campfires, barbecues, and flammables are allowed.
- Play it Safe - From fireworks to camp stoves, understand the potentially explosive nature of your toys and tools and that some of these may be restricted in your location.
- Explore Locally – Impacts from wildfire can change your travel plans. Have a back-up plan, like close-to-home gems that you have yet to explore.
- Leave No Trace – Keep your campfire small, ensure that it’s out completely and cold to the touch prior to leaving or going to sleep.
- Build an Inclusive Outdoors - Everyone experiences the outdoors differently, and we can work together to keep our communities safe.
Preparing for Power Outages
Wildfires can also mean Public Safety Power Outages (PSPS) are on the horizon, especially if you live in California. Learn more about how to stock your emergency kit on our emergency preparedness resource page.
Solar Camping Lanterns
Ready to hit the trails? Check out our best lanterns for backpacking and camping. If you're adventuring in an area with fire bans, a solar lantern is a safe and renewable solution for light after dark. Plus, our 2-in-1 Power Lanterns can also be used as a portable charger for your phone, headlamp, or camera while you're off the grid.
