Tent Safety

Tent fires are a source of injury and death to may people each year. Many times when a tent ignites, from a candle, fuel-fired stove, lantern, or campfire spark, the occupant does not wake up soon enough to escape.

Follow these precautions to camp safety using your tent:


1. Be aware of the hazards of ignition sources.

• Never fill camp stoves, heaters or lanterns with fuel while in a tent.
• Never use an open flame such as a candle or match in a tent.
• Build campfires several yards away from your tent. Be sure the fire is downwind from the tent.

2. Use flammable liquids carefully.

• Gasoline and kerosene should never be stored in or near a tent.
• Keep flammable liquids in tightly capped safety cans and keep them away from children.

3. Never camp alone. Always be sure that there are at least three other people in your group, especially if you are camping in a remote location. If one is hurt, one can stay with the victim, and two can go for help.

4. Mark your tent stakes with fluorescent paint or with small brightly colored flags. Tripping or falling over the ropes or stakes contributes to the injuries sustained from tents.

5. Pack emergency signaling devices and know ahead of time the location of the nearest telephone or ranger's station in case an emergency does occur on the trip. Be sure to have a flashlight and batteries available to guide you safely.