Whether you're roughing it in a tent, car camping, or traveling in an RV, there are many ways to make sure that your camping experience is fun and safe. Consider the following basic tips.

Check the elements

• What is in the skies? Check the Ruidoso webcam and weather report before you leave home. When you arrive at the site, keep on eye on the skies for changes and, if possible, carry a compact weather radio. In inclement weather, take shelter until the bad weather passes. Stay dry - wet clothes contribute to heat loss. Also, keep sleeping bags and important gear dry at all times.

• Are there forest or fire alerts? The latest fire restrictions and information may be found at Ruidoso-nm.gov and nmfireinfo.com.

• Be wildlife aware. Ruidoso’s abundant wildlife is one of its great visitor thrills. Yet it’s important to remember to treat wildlife with proper caution and respect. When you follow safe wildlife watching practices, you protect the health of the wildlife—and yourself. Here are some tips to help you enjoy watching Ruidoso wildlife responsibly.

Be prepared

• What to consider before camping during the coronavirus pandemic: While the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) still says that staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting sick, it doesn’t specifically advise against camping or RV travel. Whether you plan to pack your entire apartment into a car and head to a developed campground or dive into the wilderness with just a backpack, here are some ideas on how to enjoy a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure under “new normal” circumstances.

• Pack a first aid kit. Your kit can prove invaluable if you or a member of your group suffers a cut, bee sting or allergic reaction. Pack antiseptics for cuts and scrapes, tweezers, insect repellent, a snake bite kit, pain relievers, and sunscreen. Tailor your kit to your family's special needs.

• Bring emergency supplies. In addition to a first aid kit, you should also have a map of the area, compass, flashlight, knife, waterproof fire starter, personal shelter, whistle, warm clothing, high energy food, water, water-purifying tablets, and insect repellant.

• Before bringing Fido camping, stop by the vet to make sure your pet is up to date on all shots for protection. Learn the where, what, and how to responsibly enjoy the outdoors with your pets in Ruidoso.

Outdoor awareness

• Think carefully about fires. 95% of wildfires are caused by people—and can be prevented by people, too. Do your part to keep Ruidoso safe by keeping these wildfire prevention tips in mind before you leave home as well as on the trail to make for an enjoyable outdoor experience in Ruidoso. The latest fire restrictions and information may be found at Ruidoso-nm.gov and nmfireinfo.com.

• Use caution with propane stoves, grills. Read the instructions that come with the stove and propane cylinder. Use the stove as a cooking appliance only - never leave it unattended while it's burning.

• Watch out for bugs. Hornets, bees, wasps, and yellow jackets are a problem at many campsites. Avoid attracting stinging insects by wearing light-colored clothing and avoiding perfumes or colognes. Should such an insect approach, do not wave wildly and swat blindly - instead use a gentle pushing or brushing motion to deter them.

• Dispose of trash properly. Remember to take trash with you when you leave - use the proper recycling bins if available. For more information about how to reduce your physical impact, check out Leave No Trace, a program committed to the sustainable exploration of the outdoors.

• Beware of wildlife. To ward off wild scavengers, keep your campsite clean, and do not leave food, garbage, coolers, cooking equipment, or utensils out in the open. Remember that bears can be dangerous and unpredictable - never feed or approach a bear. Use a flashlight at night - many animals feed at night and the use of a flashlight may warn them that you are approaching. Follow these basic guidelines to ensure the safety of you and animals with respect to wildlife.

• Know which plants are poisonous. Familiarize yourself with any dangerous plants that are common to the area. If you come into contact with a poisonous plant, immediately rinse the affected area with water and apply a soothing lotion such as calamine to the affected area.

• Keep it clean. Wash your hands, particularly after using the toilet and before handling food to prevent the spread of germs and disease. Use biodegradable soap. Keep your campsite clean, too. And don't forget to remove all evidence of your visit.

Source: United States Forest Service and Center for Disease Control