School will be getting out soon,
so now is the time to think about
recreational security.
Here are a few tips
to keep in mind.
- Avoid camping alone in isolated areas.
- Park your vehicle so it cannot be blocked by another vehicle in case of emergency.
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency locations and phone numbers in case of accidents or crime.
- Avoid leaving your camping gear (cook stove, lantern, ice chest, chairs, etc.) out in the open unattended.
- Get to know your camping neighbors - and help protect each other's belongings.
- Avoid walking alone. Use the buddy system at all times.
- Carry a spare lock so you can use storage containers available at many parks.
- Use a chain and lock to secure propane tanks, extra fuel tanks, portable generators, spare tires, bicycles, etc.
- Always lock your camping trailer when you leave the vicinity.
- Install a locking device on the trailer towing hitch, so your trailer cannot be stowed away.
- Before taking weapons with you, be aware of the regulations. In many parks and wildlife refuges, it is against the law to carry weapons.
- Let family and/or neighbors & friends know where you will be, when you are going, and when you will return. Give them a number to reach you or another family member in case of an emergency.
_ If you plan to take a dog along for security, check ahead to see if there are restrictions on pets.
- Report any suspicious activities and all crimes to the proper authorities in parks, the park rangers; on private land, the sheriff or police.
If it's not possible to park your vehicle within eyesight of your group, leave it some place where it can be watched by park patrols or someone you know; or arrange for someone to drop you off and pick you up later. Other prevention techniques are:
- If you must leave valuables in your vehicle, place them in the trunk - not under the front seat or hidden under clothing. Be cautious that you are not being observed when putting valuables in your trunk.
- Install a locking hood latch.
- Install an alarm device in your vehicle which will activate a siren, horn or lights to frighten thieves away.
- Equip your vehicle with locking lug nuts to prevent your wheels from being stolen.
- Install a battery locking device to prevent the battery from being stolen.
Like your TV, VCR, stereo and other belongings at home, camping equipment is also vulnerable to theft, especially when left in the open. Mark all your belongings with your Washington driver license number, and keep a record of equipment.
- Mark your tent, sleeping bags and clothing with indelible ink.
- Engrave your food locker, thermos, coolers, lamps and flashlights - and don't forget fishing poles, tackle boxes, backpacks, barbecue grills, snorkles and fins.
- Be sure everyone in your party is aware of park/campground rules and regulations.
- When hiking, backpacking or cross country skiing, notify the ranger or campground host of your plans, including the trails you are taking, the expected time of your return and the name of a friend or relative to be notified in case of an emergency.
- Consider having everyone carry a whistle to use in case of an emergency.
- Never let children wander off by themselves or leave them unattended near a body of water.
- Report suspicious activities to the police or park ranger.