Not many things can match the joy and excitement of camping outdoor. It has long been and continues to be one of the best and most popular outdoor activities that attract thousands. The most fun part of camping is that it is done in groups and is not confined to a single place. People do with camping tour companies, with friends, with family members in mountains, forests, hills and various exotic places for days, nights and even weeks. The thrill that comes with it is second to none.

As there is a worldwide surge in camping, there has been a lot of emphasis on safety. As it is done in open air, there are many things that camper needs to be wary of. Apart from the different weather conditions, there are also animals that one needs to be careful of especially raccoons. Normally found in forests, near lakes and water streams, raccoons may look tiny but they can be quite dangerous at times. Apart from the fact that they are renowned for stealing and running away with food items, boxes, cameras, bags and anything that can get their hands on, they can be a source of spreading rabies. Therefore, when preparing for camping at a place that is well-known to have raccoons, one must take precautionary measures to keep away raccoons from the campsite.

The first thing to make sure that your food is kept in a secure place. That place should only be opened when its lunch or dinner time otherwise it should be tightly secured. Raccoons get attracted by the smell of food, therefore, it is vital to make your food an unreachable place for them. secondly, dispose of your food waste in a best possible way. Littering is bad anyway but with raccoons around, it can pose a greater threat. Make sure you have sealed trash bins. Raccoons can use their paws to open ordinary trash cans, hence it is vital to have one that is either heavy at the top or locks. And if you want to go one better, hang them from a tree. Raccoons aren’t monkeys plus they are tiny so if the trash bags or cans are hung from the top, they would not be able to reach it.

Spray ammonia or sprinkle chili pepper around the campsite. Raccoons dislike the smell of both so if the act of sprinkling and spray is repeated every day or two then there if s fair chance that these wild creatures would not be able to make it through. And if somehow, they are able to get past the ring then loud music can be played to fend them off. Lastly, never leave your toiletries around. Raccoons have a strong sense of smell and it is important to keep your toiletries in a safe place. Plus, even the smell of toothpaste or the spitting of it in the woods can attract them so be very careful.

So the next time you are planning a weekend out in the woods, secure your belongings and your campsite from a Raccoon invasion.