Safety First

Expert’s Picks: Safety First

  • Tips for Introducing Children to Canoeing

    Canoeing can be a fun way to introduce your child to outdoor adventure. Hearing, seeing and feeling the sights of nature while paddling down your favorite river can inspire a life-long love of the great outdoors. Here are a few tips to help your first outing go smoothly. read more

  • About OSHA Climbing Regulations

    For those who oversee or manage facilities that involve outdoor or indoor rock climbing or mountain hiking, certain regulations must be followed as set forth by the federal Occupational Health & Safety Administration. read more

  • Camp Safety Procedures

    Camping can be fun if you keep some basic safety precautions in mind. Putting safety first makes for a more relaxing and enjoyable trip for everyone, and being safe doesn't have to mean cutting out fun and adventure. read more

  • Types of Safety Harnesses

    When hunting, climbing or fishing, it is important to put safety first. A safety harness is the best way to protect your body against injury when climbing a tree, scaling a rock wall or reeling in a heavy fish. As with any sport or safety equipment, consider fit of the equipment and level of maneuverability. Styles can also influence preferences. read more

  • Tips on Backing a Travel Trailer

    When you back a travel trailer for the first time, you may feel like you're back in driving school. The process is not intuitive for many people, so it takes time and patience to learn. Remember to put safety first. Always go slow, practice in an area free of hazards and be willing to ask for help until you feel confident. read more

Related Safety First Articles & Videos

  • Safety Tips for Using a Propane Camping Stove

    A propane camping stove offers a versatile method for cooking food. This stove is portable and convenient to take camping, hiking or for a day of cooking a hot lunch at the park. Remember when using a propane camping stove, it is about… read more

  • Life Vest Regulations for Colorado

    The rivers and lakes created by the Colorado Rockies provide a huge variety of engaging water sports. Whether you choose to kayak, raft, canoe or motorboat, it's important to consider safety first and carry proper flotation devices. Co… read more

  • How to Ski Double Black Diamonds

    Double black diamonds represent advanced to expert terrain on any mountain. Don't attempt to ski these runs without experience on the mountain. It's always better to ski well on easier terrain than it is to ski badly (and dangerously… read more

  • How to Camp With Kids in California

    California is an ideal place for family camping trips, especially with children. Most people camp within the California State Parks. The key is to prepare properly and choose the right camping grounds. Make sure to check up on the wea… read more

  • Tips on Cooking for Camping

    Cooking for a camping trip doesn't have to be difficult. With a little organization and a solid plan in place, any camp cook can keep his or her fellow campers happy and well-fed. Planning ahead, choosing simple meals and snacks, and f… read more

  • List of Travel Items

    A road trip can be the best way to tour an area, but it can turn into a tedious journey when essentials and those little items that make a road trip comfortable are forgotten. Plan not only for comfort but the worst case scenario. Rese… read more

  • How to Rappel Down a Cliff

    Safety first! Before you learn to rappel you must fully understand and accept the risks involved. Hanging over the side of a cliff on a rope is an inherently dangerous undertaking. Done with care and preparation under the instruction… read more

  • What to Bring on a Kayak Trip

    Whether out for a quick workout, a day trip or an extended expedition, there is essential gear on a kayak outing that you need to have and know how to use. It is a safety issue. Paddlers get into trouble when they ignore the basics of… read more

Safety First Photos

  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

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  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

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  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

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