Summer is a season of sunshine, long weekends, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re hiking through national parks, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, or spending the day paddling across a quiet lake, these outdoor activities offer countless opportunities for fun. But with the warmer weather and increased activity comes a new set of safety challenges.
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To make sure your summer adventures are filled with good memories (and not emergency room visits), we’ve compiled a list of essential safety tips. From managing hydration on long hikes to safely extinguishing a campfire, these practical tips will help you enjoy the season to its fullest.
Tip #1 Stay HydratedÂ
Your Body Needs More Water Than You ThinkÂ
When you’re out in the heat, your body loses water more quickly than you might realize. Dehydration can sneak up on you and lead to fatigue, confusion, headaches, and even heatstroke. Always bring more water than you think you’ll need – especially on long hikes.Â
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A good rule of thumb from the National Institute of Health is one liter of water per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures. In hot weather or on strenuous hikes, you’ll need even more. The Nature Conservancy recommends drinking small amounts frequently to make sure you stay hydrated the entire time that you’re exercising.Â
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If you’re hiking with dogs, don’t forget they need water too! Bring a travel water dispenser for your dog to make keeping them hydrated a breeze or pack nutritious, water-dense snacks like watermelon, cucumber and celery that you both can munch on! The ASPCA reminds us that when your dog has access to drinking water, that makes drinking from that stagnant parasite-filled puddle less tempting!
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Our favorite way to stay hydrated on the go is this lightweight Hydration Backpack by Rainsmore with a two liter insulated water bladder, plus generous storage and tons of pockets for easy access to all of your hiking supplies.
Tip #2 Use the Buddy System
We are all for empowerment and self-discovery, but let’s do it the smart way!
It’s tempting to head out solo for a peaceful hike, paddle, or bike ride – but the risk is seldom worth the reward. If something goes wrong (twisted ankle, equipment failure, unexpected wildlife encounter), having a reliable buddy with you can be a life saver! The National Park Service encourages you to know your limits, have a plan, and pack the essentials before any backcountry expedition.Â
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If you do head out on your own, always let someone know your route, your expected return time, and who they can contact if you don’t check in. Apps like AllTrails, Gaia GPS, or Cairn can help track your location and share it with emergency contacts.Â
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Don’t have someone to hike with? Make new friends and meet people in your community by signing up for group hikes with social sites like Meetup and Social Hiker. You can also sign up for virtual challenges with real medals on sites like Conqueror and Yes.Fit.
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If you’re looking to get really deep into the wilderness, solo or with a group, we recommend this ACR ResQLink 400 GPS Personal Locator Beacon Survival Kit as a smart addition to your gear when you’re venturing off-grid. It’s compact, reliable, and designed for quick rescue even in the remotest of places.Â
Tip #3 Respect the Sun
Sunscreen and Shade Are Your Friends
The sun can be a silent danger during summer activities. Even on cloudy days or when you’re shaded by trees, UV rays can damage your skin. The American Cancer Society encourages you to protect your skin with long, light clothing like a rash guard, to protect your face and neck by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, to wear UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes, and to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30.Â
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Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) 30 minutes before heading outdoors, and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Johns Hopkins Medicine reminds us that sunscreen is not just for beach outings, and should be worn anytime you’re outdoors for an extended period of time by people of all skin types and complexions.Â
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Did you know that dogs are at risk of sunburn too? According to the American Kennel Club, you can protect your best friend by applying specifically-formulated canine sunscreen, and dressing them in a cooling vest or rash guard and hat.
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Not all sunscreens are created equal! Look for a sunscreen with “broad spectrum coverage” because not all are formulated to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Also in some areas, the sale of sunscreens made with oxybenzone or octinoxate is strictly banned because these chemicals can harm coral reefs. We recommend Thrive Reef Safe Sunscreen to keep both you and our environment protected!
Tip #4 Know How to Put Out a Campfire
Essential steps to make sure your fire is completely extinguished
There’s nothing like gathering around a crackling fire at the end of a long day, but if it’s not put out correctly, it can become a serious hazard. Unattended or poorly extinguished campfires are a leading cause of wildfires. The National Park Service reminds us that even the coals from your campfire can retain heat for hours and are at risk of a flare up from a single heavy gust.Â
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STEPS
To put out your campfire properly:
Allow the wood to burn completely to ash if possible.
Pour water on the fire slowly and thoroughly, not just over the flames but over the coals and embers.
Stir the ashes with a stick or shovel to expose any hot spots.
Add more water and stir again until everything is cold to the touch.
If water isn’t available, use dirt or sand.
Never leave a campfire without fully extinguishing it, as it can smolder and reignite.
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Be aware of the fire danger level or potential fire bans in the area you’re camping in by looking for signage, asking a park ranger, or checking a local government website, and then plan your activities accordingly. Also, be vigilant in checking the forecast so you know when strong wind or lightning risks might be high.
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Save some room in your camping supplies for this fire poker and grabber set so that you’re not reliant on finding just the right stick or risking danger to your hands. We also recommend having an emergency fire blanket handy anywhere there’s a fire hazard, from your campfire to your home kitchen.Â
Tip #5 Watch the WeatherÂ
Don’t Let the Forecast Catch You Off Guard
Summer weather can change in an instant, especially in mountainous or coastal areas. A bright morning can turn into a dangerous afternoon storm in a matter of minutes. The National Weather Service reminds outdoor enthusiasts that if you can hear thunder, you’re within striking distance of lightning. When it comes to weather, it’s better to err on the side of caution.
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Always check the full day’s weather forecast before heading out and continue to monitor conditions while you’re outside. Weather apps like AccuWeather and Windy can send alerts to your phone in real time.
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Know what different cloud patterns indicate: tall, dark cumulonimbus clouds are often a warning sign that a storm is coming. If you’re on open terrain, on water, or above the tree line and hear thunder, seek shelter immediately.
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We recommend the Midland ER310 Emergency Weather Radio. It’s solar-powered with a crank and USB charging backup, and includes NOAA weather alerts. Ideal for camping, boating, and hiking off-grid.
Tip #6 Keep Wildlife Encounters SafeÂ
Friend-shaped or not, avoid close encounters with the local wildlife.
Seeing a bear in the wild is a breathtaking experience, but that doesn’t mean you should try to get closer. The U.S. Forest Service advises maintaining at least 100 yards (the full length of a football field) from bears and large mammals. Most animal-related injuries happen when people get too close.
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Make noise as you move through the backcountry so you don’t surprise wildlife. Keep dogs leashed. Store food and trash in bear-proof containers and never leave them unattended. Avoid hiking at dawn or dusk when wildlife is more active.
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If you do see a bear, don’t run. Back away slowly, speak calmly, and make yourself appear larger. Carry bear spray in grizzly territory and know how to use it properly.
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We recommend the Counter Assault Bear Spray with holster. It’s trusted by national park rangers and has a high EPA rating. Also consider a bear-proof food canister or this Bear Bag Hanging Kit to keep you and your supplies safe.
Tip #7 Swim SmartÂ
Lakes and Rivers Aren’t Swimming Pools
Natural bodies of water are unpredictable. Cold temperatures, swift currents, and hidden hazards like submerged rocks or sudden drop-offs can quickly turn a swim into a dangerous situation. The CDC urges swimmers to always swim with a buddy and to wear life jackets during boating or paddle boarding activities.
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Enter unknown water feet first, and be cautious even when you think you know the area. Avoid alcohol while swimming or boating. Remember that life jackets save lives – they’re not just for kids.
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For families, establish designated swim zones and check the water temperature before diving in. Hypothermia can set in quickly, even in the summer.
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We love the Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Vest. It’s lightweight, Coast Guard approved, and designed for comfort and range of motion.
Tip #8 Pack a First Aid KitÂ
A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
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Blisters, scrapes, insect bites, or sprains can happen on even the most relaxed trip. A first aid kit helps you treat small injuries before they become big problems. The American Red Cross recommends packing basics like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, tape, tweezers, and pain relievers.
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Don’t forget to periodically check the expiration dates on your supplies and replace any used or out-of-date contents.
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Take a basic first aid course or wilderness first responder training. It can help you remain calm and act fast when it matters most.
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Try the Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series. They’re well-organized, lightweight, and include wilderness-specific supplies. Add extras based on your destination and health needs.
Tip #9 Pool Safety
Fun in the Sun Starts With Supervision
Backyard pools are a summer favorite, but they can also be the site of tragic accidents – especially for young children. Drowning can happen silently and in seconds. There are over 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths every year in the United States alone according to the CDC. Vigilance is key.
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Always assign a “water watcher” when kids are swimming that can prioritize constant, undistracted supervision of people in and around the water by staying within arm’s reach of young or inexperienced swimmers and avoiding distractions like phones or conversations.
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Swim lessons save lives. Enroll your children in age-appropriate lessons and model good behavior by swimming sober and wearing life jackets when necessary. The American Red Cross provides resources to find swim classes near you as well as CPR/AED courses to learn how to prevent and respond to emergencies
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Install four-sided fencing with self-latching gates around pools and then equip entry points with these easy-to-install alarms. And don’t forget to have a high-quality rescue hook and flotation device nearby.
Tip #10 Keep Pets Safe in SummerÂ
Dogs Get Heat Stroke Too
Summer fun is even better with a furry friend, but high temps can be dangerous for pets. The ASPCA advises never leaving pets in parked cars and always providing shade and clean water. Use pet-safe sunscreen on noses and ears, and watch for signs of overheating: heavy panting, drooling, or weakness.
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Avoid walking your dog on paved surfaces on hot days. According to data reported by the Journal of the American Medical Association, when the air temperature is 86 degrees, the asphalt temperature registers 135 degrees. To find out if the pavement is a dangerous temperature, place your full palm on the asphalt surface for ten seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand then it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws.Â
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Pack a cooling vest and collapsible water bowl on your adventures. Frozen treats and water-rich snacks like watermelon (seeds removed) also help keep pups cool.
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If you’re lounging with your dog outside, give this CoolerDog Hydro Cooling Mat a try. Freeze the inner ice sheet and your dog will enjoy a nice, cool place to relax for up to four hours. Â
Tip #12 Mosquito & Tick ControlÂ
Tiny Bites, Big Risks
Mosquitoes and ticks don’t just itch—they can carry diseases like West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The EPA recommends using insect repellents with DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
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Apply insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Tuck pants into socks and wear long sleeves when hiking in wooded or grassy areas. Do a full-body tick check after spending time outdoors.
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Remove any ticks you find immediately using fine-tipped tweezers. Disinfect the bite area and monitor for rashes or flu-like symptoms.
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We recommend Ranger Ready Repellents Tick Spray and Mosquito Repellent, made with 20% Picaridin, for long-lasting and effective protection against both mosquitoes and ticks – in three fantastic scents. Pack a tick removal tool and keep it in your first aid kit.Â
Final Thought: Adventure Awaits – Just Go Prepared
The best summer adventures are the ones where you come home safe, sun-kissed, and smiling. While it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the season, taking a few minutes to plan ahead and think through safety basics can go a long way.
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So grab your gear, pack smart, and head out with confidence. With these summer safety tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to make the most of every warm-weather moment—whether you’re scaling peaks, swimming in clear lakes, or just sitting under the stars beside a flickering campfire.
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Happy adventuring—and stay safe out there!
