Weather & safety

Write a small, usable camp emergency plan

Keep the location, contacts and group arrangements in one place before you need them.

A tent pitched at a woodland campground.

Make a location card

A folded map, compass and small daypack.
Maps & walking

Include the campground name, site number, entrance road and any coordinates supplied by the land manager. Add a simple note about reaching your pitch from the entrance. Verify that your map pin points to the right place rather than a similarly named campground.

Agree who knows your plans

A battery lantern and headlamp.
After dark

The National Park Service recommends preparation that fits the activity and sharing a trip plan. Tell a trusted person where you are going, who is attending and when to expect contact. Agree what they should do if you do not check in; avoid vague promises to call sometime.

A tent in a woodland campground.
Worth remembering

Check the forecast for the place you will actually camp.

Keep the information usable

A folded map, compass and small daypack.
Maps & walking
Write downWhy it helps
Local emergency number and campground contactDifferent problems need different contacts.
Known signal area or staffed officeYou have a starting point if your pitch has no service.
Group meeting placePeople know where to regroup.
Vehicle and access detailsA helper can identify the group and entrance.
Individual essentialsRequired medication, accessibility and communication needs are considered.

Practise the ordinary parts

Show everyone the meeting place and where the information is kept. Carry a first-aid kit you understand and consider recognized first-aid training. If an emergency occurs, follow the dispatcher or responder’s instructions and do not delay urgent help to search through a guide.

Sources & further reading

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Guide overview