There’s nothing better than settling in to a camping chair by a fire pit underneath a beautiful starry evening at the end of a long day of family activities, sun and fun, good food, and great scenery. That’s camping in Alberta, and it is officially back on. At the beginning of June, the Alberta government allowed for provincial campgrounds to open at full capacity. This was welcome news for the hundreds of thousands of residents wanting to get out into the great outdoors for some healthy and refreshing good times. All provincial campsites were open in time for the July 1 Canada Day holiday, with first-come, first-served campgrounds opening even sooner.
Although restrictions have been lifted enough to allow Albertans to escape to the wild, there is a comprehensive COVID-19 response in place by AlbertaParks.ca. All provincial sites should be reserved through Reserve.AlbertaParks.ca. And keep in mind, too, that just as with the cities’ pubs and restaurants, 100% capacity doesn’t mean that things are completely back to normal. Double sites with shared amenities with remain closed. Double sites without shared amenities can open provided physical distancing measures can be adhered to.
When visiting provincial campgrounds, everyone is asked to:
- Practice physical distancing
- Stay away if you are feeling ill
- Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer often
- Use a mask when near people
- Pack out what you pack in (this is more important than ever)
- Be extremely cautious and avoid any additional risk
With public services already stretched to the hilt, it’s not only smart to try to avoid camping accident, it’s actually just the right thing to do.
Most Common Campground Accidents
The worst thing that can happen when we’re trying to relax and enjoy ourselves is an accident. It goes without saying that you should be prepared for all types of camping accidents – especially if there are activities such as ATV-ing, mountain biking, boating, or basically anything involving speed or a motor. While you’re having fun you should also be careful, but even with the best intentions, accidents have a way of happening.
Some of the most common campsite injuries include:
- Sunburn
- Dehydration
- Insect bites
- Allergic reactions
- Cuts and scratches
- Sprains and fractures
- Burns
- Near drownings
- Head injuries
Well-stocked first-aid kits can help address the immediate needs of major accidents until medical assistance is available, and take care of minor accidents so that everyone can continue enjoying themselves. The Canadian Red Cross suggests that at the very least, a first aid kit should contain:
- Emergency telephone numbers for the area in which you are staying
- Contact information for the personal doctors of everyone you are with
- Contact numbers for friends and family of the group you are with
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- Sun burn ointment
- Sterile pads in large and small sizes
- Scissors
- Adhesive tape
- Tons of Band-Aids in all different sizes
- Antiseptic wipes
- Tweezers
- A triangle of fabric to make a sling if necessary
- Safety pins
- Instant ice packs
- Latex gloves
- Face masks
- Emergency blanket
- Thermometer
- Pencil and pad
- Pain relievers
- Corticosteroid cream
- Allergy medication
- First aid manual
Home Insurance and Camping
Your home insurance does provide coverage for many of the more common camping accidents, such as if anything happens to your personal belongings. If a bear decides to go through your tent looking for something to eat, that would be covered under your home insurance. Friendly reminder, never leave food unsecured.
The cost of a ravaged tent as compared to the cost of a deductible is debatable, though, so the smart thing to do is always be aware of the wildlife in the area. There are other prowlers in the woods, too. Campgrounds are not safe from thieves and opportunists, so be sure to have someone at your site at all times. Keep your valuables locked away safely in your vehicle when not in use, and, of course, your vehicle locked as well. Your home insurance liability coverage will also cover you should your actions injure someone or damage their property.
RV, Travel Trailer and Camper Insurance
RVs, travel trailers and campers require very specific insurance coverage. These types of vehicles have higher values than your average car, and also have a lot of other features that need special consideration when it comes to insurance. The type and amount of RV coverage you need depends on two primary factors: the value of the vehicle and its intended usage. Also remember that your RV, trailer or camper insurance should separate coverage for your personal property, much like home insurance.
Boat Insurance
Time on the water is priceless, but the boat that takes you there is not – at least not according to insurance companies. Boat insurance functions much like car insurance. You need to carry liability coverage in case your boat damages another person’s property or causes injury, and your boat needs to be protected from perils like theft, fire and accidental damage. Minimum requirements vary, depending on the type of watercraft you’re insuring.
Your policy will provide specific protections for elements of your watercraft, including:
- The hull and trailer(s)
- Engines, motors and mechanical components
- Navigation and communication devices
Policies cover owner liabilities and loss of use situations, with some also providing for emergency costs such as towing. You can also get protection for any personal property you may be bringing on board.
Lane’s Insurance is Here For Alberta
Lane’s Insurance is your ally in the insurance business. As experienced insurance brokers, it’s our job to find you the best coverage at the very best rates out there from the suite of policies from Alberta’s most respected providers to which we have access.
Give us a call at our Calgary, Banff, Edmonton, or greater Alberta offices to see what we can do for you.
