Enjoy camping, but keep it safe Published Oct. 28, 2008 By AETC Safety Office KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISS. -- When fall chills the air, many people turn to camping for enjoyment. The key to enjoyment is keeping campsites safe. Safety sense should tell you to always bring a map, compass, lighter, insect repellent, snake bite kit, first aid kit, sturdy hiking boots and enough water, nonperishable food and warm clothing for your stay. However, safety problems can arise even with the best-laid plans. Your tent could catch fire from the embers of your campfire or camping stove, a knocked-over lantern or a carelessly thrown match or cigarette. Never light a fire inside a tent. If you're in the tent, get out as fast as you can and quickly brush off any pieces of burning fabric. Once outside, collapse the tent and stamp out any remaining small flames. Don't attempt to stamp out a large fire, since your clothing may ignite. If the tent doesn't have an attached ground cover, try grabbing it by the end furthest from the fire and pulling it clear of your equipment inside. Pour water over the entire area, even after the fire is out. Be especially careful to keep flames from any foam rubber or plastic, since these can give off poisonous fumes. If you have to get out of your sleeping bag in a hurry, don't waste time trying to find and unzip the sleeping bag's zipper. Instead, sit up and push the sleeping bag down to your waist. Lie back down, lift your hips off the ground and push the bag down. Sit up again and pull your knees up to your chest as you push the bag over them, down your legs and off your feet.