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Dangerous plants
Many plants in the wild can induce illness when eaten; give off toxic smoke when burned; irritate skin or inflict a nasty puncture wound.
There is always some risk of encountering hazardous plants when venturing in to the outdoors and when camping - usually during the warmer months when plants are green and growing, you should always stay aware. When you venture out into a new area, you may not always be familiar with the plants which live there.
Plants have thorns, irritating sap or poisonous berries in order to protect themselves.
To protect yourself against prickly or thorny plants, wear long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt, as well as a good pair of walking shoes or light hiking boots. Be careful where you walk and if you do get a puncture wound of some kind, remove the thorn, clean the area and keep an eye on it. If the area gets red and infected, visit your doctor.
In the USA particularly poison ivy, oak or sumac can be an irritating problem. It grows near rivers, streams and lakes, and by the edges of wooded areas and wood openings. The ivy produces an oily / sticky sap that is irritating to the skin. This oil binds the protein in the skin and your body reacts wish a rash.
Poison ivy can also be a problem if the plant is dead, and not just if you touch it. Grabbing a pile of these dried leaves for tinder when making your campfire or burning vines or branches from can be dangerous. The oil can be carried on smoke particles, which can be inhaled or can reach different parts of the body. The resin of the plant sticks to everything, even clothing so be careful when handling clothes that have been in contact.
When you are camping in an area where poison ivy or a similar plant may be present
- Wear long trousers and long sleeves to protect your skin
- If you do have any contact, wash the area as soon as possible with soap and water
- Wash any clothes that come in contact
- If the skin is already irritated, apply calamine lotion or take anti-histamine tablet if reaction is severe
You may come across berries or mushrooms at the campsite and it is important you ensure your children stay away from anything potentially dangerous. Don�t eat anything unless you are absolutely certain what it is, many poisonous berries or mushrooms can look similar to edible ones.
If you are going to an unfamiliar area, it is always worth reading up on the environment or checking with the local authorities for any warnings.