Camping and outdoor activity

Camping

Choose the best equipment available to you to deal with hot weather. You may be able to borrow from another Group? Heavy canvas can be cooler in hot weather than lightweight tents.  Roll the sides up to get a breeze?

Lightweight tents should have a UV rating so they protect you. A dining shelter gives shade to help cooking preparation or just as a cool spot out of the sun. Don’t cook inside without proper ventilation!

Protect gas cylinders from heating up in direct sunlight.

Find the right sleeping bag – it can get very cold at night too. Wear a hat in bed to get a good night’s sleep.

Fire Safety 

Be mindful of the dry ground and foliage, making sure that any fires are given sufficient clear area to prevent fires from spreading. Using an altar fire off the ground can reduce the risk. Have a fire bucket or extinguisher nearby.

If adults must smoke this needs to be away from the group and in a suitable area where risk of fire is managed.

Food Safety

Make sure that you choose a menu to suit the weather and adapt as needed. Check that you have a reliable and safe source of drinking water.  Storage of food and preparation are also areas with increased risk when the weather is hot.

If you have a fridge available, use it for high risk foods like meat and dairy.  Some foods come with a higher risk when exposed to heat throughout the day, so try alternatives. For example: replace fresh milk with UHT, store milk in buckets of cold water in the shade and refresh water regularly to keep it cool.

Travel

Think about what travel methods are best for hot weather and be prepared, carrying plenty of water and plan in rest breaks. Make sure that drivers have sufficient rest too and if possible share driving responsibilities. Traveling time is also important, make the most of the cooler parts of the day for journeys as it will be more comfortable for all and usually less busy on the roads.