[Column] Five Safety Rules for Enjoying Autumn Camping in National Parks with All Five Senses

Park Kyungpil, Director of Gyeryongsan National Park Office, Korea National Park Service

Kyungpil Park, Director of Gyeryongsan National Park Office, Korea National Park Service

The seemingly endless heat has passed, and now autumn brings cool and refreshing weather. The forests of the national parks have shed their lush green attire and are now dressed in vibrant red and yellow foliage. Visitors who once sought refuge from the summer heat in the green mountains and clear valleys of the national parks are now returning to the campgrounds, using the blue sky as a blanket and the blazing autumn leaves as a pillow. It is a marvelous moment that allows us to once again feel the wonder of changing seasons and the rhythm of nature.

Camping offers unique charms in every season, but camping in national parks during autumn especially stimulates all five senses. The colorful leaves in shades of yellow, orange, and red created by the forest, together with the high, clear sky, are a feast for the eyes, as if stepping into a painting. The sound of autumn wind and the crunch of fallen leaves soothe our ears. While not as intense as spring blossoms, the scent of autumn flowers gently brushes past the nose. Moreover, there is no need to suffer from the humidity and heat of summer or the dryness and cold of winter. Above all, the greatest allure is the abundance of food enjoyed during the "season of harvest." The taste of food eaten outdoors on autumn days, when grains and fruits ripen, is more satisfying than anything else. The temple cuisine experienced during a temple stay tour at Gapsa, a thousand-year-old temple, offers a unique autumn atmosphere that can only be felt in Gyeryongsan, far from the city.

However, this satisfaction of the senses can only be enjoyed if one's own safety is ensured. Every year, it is heartbreaking to hear news reports of accidents occurring at campgrounds. According to statistics from the National Fire Agency, there were a total of 596 camping-related safety accidents nationwide last year (2023). Of these, 168 accidents occurred in autumn, accounting for about 30%. The most common types of accidents were falls, burns, gas poisoning, cuts/punctures/lacerations/scratches, and bites/stings. This highlights that "safety" can never be overemphasized.

Such camping accidents can happen to anyone without warning. A camping trip meant to create cherished memories can turn into a lifelong traumatic experience. To prevent such accidents and ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience, the Korea National Park Service recommends the following five guidelines, and we urge everyone to actively follow them.

First, strengthen safety measures to prevent falls. When moving between campsites, use only designated paths. Mark guy lines on tents to make them visible, and use a flashlight at night to avoid tripping. Excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to falls at the campground, so it should be avoided.

Second, remember that a moment of carelessness can lead to a major fire. Always install fire sources only in designated areas, and do not use cookware larger than the portable gas stove when cooking. Do not place butane gas canisters near heat sources. Prevent accidents caused by campfires as well; refrain from "bulmyeong" (staring at the fire) during strong winds, and always extinguish embers before sleeping. Damaged extension cords, overheating of electrical appliances, and battery explosions are also fire hazards, so check their condition regularly. In addition, be familiar with the location and operation of fire extinguishers for immediate response in case of fire. Each campsite in national parks is equipped with fire extinguishers, allowing anyone to respond quickly in an emergency.

Third, ensure proper ventilation of tents. Using charcoal, campfires, or gas inside tents for cooking or heating increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and can lead to gas explosions in enclosed spaces. If you must use fire sources inside the tent, ventilate frequently and take advantage of the free carbon monoxide detector rental service available at national park campgrounds to prevent poisoning accidents.

Fourth, be cautious of bites and stings from animals and plants around the campground. Due to the excellent preservation of the natural ecosystem in national parks, a variety of flora and fauna inhabit the area. If you leave the campsite and enter grassy areas, wear long sleeves and pants, and use repellents to prevent bites and stings.

Fifth, prepare emergency first-aid supplies. National park campgrounds are often located far from urban areas, making it difficult to access hospitals or purchase medicine in emergencies. If visitors have consumed alcohol, driving is not an option, making response even more challenging. Always keep first-aid supplies on hand to provide immediate care for cuts, punctures, lacerations, scratches, and bites/stings from insects or venomous creatures caused by cooking or other activities.

While most people are generally aware of these rules and may think they can easily handle emergencies, things are different when actually camping. Most visitors are excited and let their guard down, and in a real emergency, panic can lead to serious accidents. To prevent accidents at campgrounds, we must overcome the mindset of "it won't happen to me" and develop the habit of making safety awareness part of our daily lives.

In this autumn season of abundance, let us once again recall and follow the "Five Safety Commandments for Autumn Camping in National Parks," and may you create beautiful memories with family, friends, and loved ones at the campgrounds.