Summer Safety

Summer is winding down, many children have already headed back to school and the days are starting to get shorter and shorter. But, the weather is still warm and there’s always a chance for those last-minute outdoor getaways. We want to remind you of some basic safety guidelines while you’re enjoying the great outdoors.

• Never leave a campfire unattended and be sure to put out your campfire completely before you leave.
• Use a plastic ground cloth under your tent to help keep you dry.
• Wear layers of light-weight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing.
• Be sure to bring along supplies including a first-aid kit, compass or GPS, map, flashlight, blankets, batteries, food, clothes, and medications.
• Always have plenty of extra socks with you when you go camping.
• Before you leave for your camping trip be sure to tell some of your friends where you are going. Be as specific as you can and let them know when you expect to return.
• Plan for the journey by researching the area on the web. 
• Be sure to bring your own water or water filter for drinking. 
• Carry out all of the garbage you carry in.
• Use sun block.
• If you are caught above the tree line when a storm approaches, descend quickly. 
• Storms can also develop in the middle of the night. To lower your odds of being struck by lighting don't pitch your tent near the tallest trees in the vicinity.

There are numerous different types of wildlife here in Colorado. One species you may encounter is the black bear. Black bears range in color from black to light blond and have a lighter patch on their chest. They average in size from 110 to 300 pounds, are two-and-a-half to three feet tall at their shoulder and around five feet standing. Their ears are larger and pointed and their claws are shorter. When looking at prints to detect if it’s a black bear, look for a larger toe arc. Toe imprints are farther apart and the claws usually don’t leave an impression.

While we no longer have grizzly bears in Colorado, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to two. During Teddy Bear Days, held on July 9 and 10, our bears illustrated what may happen to your campsite if you don’t follow basic camping guidelines. Take a look at the video clip to see these helpful bear tips in action.

• Never cook or store food in or near your tent.
• Hang food and other items with strong odors (i.e., toothpaste, bug repellent, soap, etc.) out of reach of bears.
• Hang items at least 10 feet above the ground and if no trees are available, store your food in air-tight or bear-proof containers.
• Change your clothing before you go to sleep.  Don't wear what you cooked in to bed and be sure to store smelly clothing along with your food/ other smelly items.
• Keep the area clean. Be sure to wash dishes, dispose of garbage, and wipe down tables.
• Burn garbage completely in a hot fire and pack trash out - don't bury it.