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Sports and recreation tips
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Try horse shows and dog shows for economical entertainment
It can be thrilling to watch riders led their horses over obstacles or observe trainers putting their dogs through their paces. Usually, admission to these evens is very low or free. Check with area stables for event information and with local dog trainers for upcoming shows.
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Martial arts competitions are both interesting and entertaining
Martial arts schools frequently offer demonstrations, and there are competitions between schools. These are exciting to watch and cost little or nothing.
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Try a soccer game for economical entertainment
This sport has long been the favorite throughout most of the world. The games are fast and exciting, the skills are breath taking, and it’s fun learning the rules of a new sport. See if there’s a youth or adult league to check out in your area.
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Don’t wait for the Olympics to watch water sports or gymnastics
If you have a college or university (or even a high school) nearby with a ranked swim team, swimming and diving events can be extremely exciting to watch. For gymnastics, check with high school or college athletic departments or gymnastics schools about competitions. Both men’s and women’s events are full of heart-stopping moments, graceful routines, and supreme athleticism.
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Enjoy sports for less by discovering the minors
Many cities are home to major league farm teams whose players are in training for the big leagues. If any of these teams are in your area, give them a try. At minor league games, everyone gets a great seat because the stadiums are much smaller. The games tend to be family friendly, and the ticket prices are vastly lower.
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Protect your child and check out play areas at school or day care
Make sure that the playground surface is energy absorbent, and it is not just a thin layer or has become so compacted that it might as well be concrete. Check that the equipment is properly anchored and in good repair and that sharp protrusions are covered and broken equipment is removed and replace promptly.
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On your next boating trip….
Attach a cork to your keys. If you accidentally drop them into the water, they will float.
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Mark your sports equipment
With colored fingernail polish, mark your initials on your equipment to prevent any mistaken ownership. Even just a dot of colored polish will ensure it’s identification.
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To identify a stolen bike
Even though the serial number may nave been filed off, roll the file card around a pencil, remove the bicycle’s seat post and drop the card into the bicycle frame. It can easily be removed as proof of ownership.
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Wax your fishing pole
It will protect the pole from moisture if waxed several times a year.
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Aluminum foil creates more light
To brighten a dimly lit yard or campsite, put a piece of reflective aluminum foil behind the lamp or electric lights.
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Save on camp stove fuel while camping
In order to save on fuel, it is a good idea to boil extra water at mealtime and keep it in a Thermos. This will enable you to make a hot beverage between meals or at bedtime without having to heat up your camp stove again.
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Minimize ‘bugging’ by insects when camping
Insects are most attracted to dark colored and rough textured clothing. Insects are least attracted to light-colored, smooth-textured clothing. Insects are attracted to perfumed soaps and shampoos.
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Natural insect repellents help while camping
Buy Natural Citronella, available in oil, soap and hair & body shampoo. These Canadian made products contain all-natural ingredients, are biodegradable and do not contain any toxic ingredients. These products are available at many camping specialty stores and pharmacies. Citronella repels insects. Some people report that Avon Skin-So-Soft Bath Oil makes an effective insect repellent.
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To apply insect repellent and sunscreen when camping
If you are using a separate repellent and sunscreen: Apply the sunscreen first, about a half hour before exposure to the sun. Sunscreen needs to be absorbed by the skin in order to provide protection. The insect repellent, which works by emitting a vapor from the surface of the skin can be applied second.
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Successful packing for camping
Buy some storage boxes that can be found at discount stores. Transparent ones make it easier to find your things, but the solid color boxes are stronger. Use one box for food, another for camping items, and another for extra clothing. If you are handy, you can make a wooden box with slots for dishes and hooks for your cups.
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Pitching your tent for camping
New tents usually need to be waterproofed. Set it up at home and soak it with water to see if it requires such treatment prior to your camping trip. When you pack up your tent, pack the stakes separately to avoid punctures.
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Carefully choose your tent site
When pitching your tent, choose a flat or gently sloping area that isn't in a depression. If your tent is located on a slope, place the door facing downhill, so that rainwater will drain away from your tent. On most campground campsites, the best locations will be the areas where others have pitched their tents before you!
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Avoid open places when pitching your tent
The safest place is near small, young trees or brush. Open places leave your tent vulnerable to damaging winds. Large trees are a target for lightning and falling branches. Small trees and brush protect from the wind and will not leave you vulnerable to lighting. NEVER set up too close to the fire pit or dishwashing area.
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Clearing the area to pitch your tent
Clear away all debris. Small rocks and sticks can feel like boulders at 4am. Place a plastic tarp under your tent to reduce moisture. Invest in some air mattresses and place them under the sleeping bags. You will sleep much better. Always leave your shoes outside the tent. This cuts down on the amount of dirt inside the tent.
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Storing food while camping
Never eat or store food in your tent. Food odors linger and attract animals. Food, stove, cooler, dishes and garbage should be packed away in the vehicle trunk whenever you will be away from camp. It is best to keep chewing gum, mints, toothpaste and perfumed soap in the trunk overnight, rather than in your tent.
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Safest way to set up multiple tents
For multiple tents on your site, align them in such a way that, should an animal enter the campsite and become startled, it would not feel trapped, without an obvious and easy escape route. DON'T arrange tents in a circle or too close together in a line or semi-circle. Animals are curious and will wander through your campsite.
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Keeping a cooler cold while camping
Large ice blocks last much longer than ice cubes or freezer packs and can last 4 to 5 days. Make your own by filling a plastic milk container with water. Place in the freezer several days before your trip. A melted ice block is an effective way to keep things cold in your cooler. Don’t pitch all the ice water.
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Use baking soda to extinguish campfires
Carry baking soda on camping trips. It’s handy to put out campfires and to extinguish flare-ups and flying sparks if you are cooking on an open fire or outdoor barbecue pit.
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Extend the life of bathing suits with baking soda
After a swim in the pool, rinse your bathing suit in a weak baking soda solution (½ cup baking soda and 1 gallon of water). Follow with a clear water rinse. Squeeze and allow to dry overnight.
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Fishing hook trick!
When you’re done fishing, slip an empty plastic pill bottle over the hook on your line and snap the cap on. That will present your hook from snagging on things.
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Bicycle identification
If you purchase a new bike for your child, place their picture inside the handle bar before placing the grips on. If the bike is stolen and later recovered, remove the grip and there is your proof who owns the bike.
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Avoid taking jeans when camping
Jeans take a long time to dry. If both the time and money for laundering are concerns, take lighter weight pants.
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Camping clothes
Coordinate your clothes around one or two basic colors. Take fewer shoes and accessories. One week’s worth of clothes is ideal. Plan on laundering. Wear and carry washable silk clothing whenever possible. It is as warm as and as cool as cotton, dries overnight and 10-15 pieces take no more room than two pair jeans.
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Make sure your fires are always attended when camping
Be sure you have an area for a fire that cannot spread laterally or vertically – a grill or stone surface is ideal.
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Beware when encountering wildlife while camping
Use a flashlight at night. Many animals feed at night and the use of a flashlight may warn them away. To ward off bears, keep your campsite clean and do not leave food, garbage, coolers, cooking equipment or utensils out in the open.
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Raincoat serves multiple purposes when camping
Not only does a plastic raincoat protect from rain but it also doubles as a bathrobe or windbreaker.
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Beware of poisonous plants when camping
Familiarize yourself with any dangerous plants that are common to the area where you are camping.
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Take older clothes when camping
Older clothes can be discarded along the way. This leaves much more room for bringing souvenirs home. In many places, the local people are pleased to get these castoffs.
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Watching out for bugs while camping
Avoid attracting stinging insects by wearing light colored clothing and avoiding perfume and cologne.
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Think before you drink stream water when camping
No matter how clean or pure stream water looks, it’s likely to contain water-borne parasites and microorganisms that can cause discomfort or serious illness.
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Make camp before dark
Traveling after darkness has resulted in many accidents from falls, so travel during daylight whenever possible.
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Check for potential hazards around camping area
Be sure to check thoroughly for glass, sharp objects, branches, large ant beds, poison ivy, bees and hazardous terrain.
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Avoid areas of natural hazards when camping
Check the contour of the land and for potential trouble due to rain.
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Inspect the site around your camping area
Look for a level site with enough room to spread your gear.
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Build fires in a safe area when camping
Your open fires and fuel burning appliances must be far enough away from the tent to prevent ignition from sparking flames and heat.
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Successful backpacking
Study a map or guide to know the terrain you'll be hiking and estimate the time it will take to arrive at your destination. Pad your estimates with extra time to account for delays.
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Smart prep makes for better backpacking
Obtain necessary permits and reserve campsites in advance, and check local regulations to avoid fines. Know the area's weather patterns and accommodate for time of year. Be prepared for the worst weather and always pack rain gear.
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Appropriate dress for backpacking
Since it's easy to perspire, even in the winter, dress appropriately in layers and be prepared for changing conditions, temperature changes at higher altitudes, and evenings. Avoid wearing jeans or cotton clothing. Wear polypropylene, wool or other breathable materials that wick moisture away and dry quickly.
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Know your backpacking gear before you hike
Seam-seal the tent and familiarize yourself with its design and set-up. Learn how to operate your stove before you're caught in the dark or rain. Know your load limit and how long you can carry it without straining yourself. The pack shouldn't weigh more than 25 percent of your weight, so take only what you need.
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Camping year-round
While camping trips are planned with hopes of good weather, severe weather always is a possibility, but it doesn’t have to diminish the enjoyment of camping. To make the most of the camping experience, it’s important to consider the weather before packing up the camper or travel trailer.
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Lightning storm while camping
You are in danger of lightning if you can hear thunder. Seek shelter inside an enclosed structure; if that is not possible squat low to the ground, with your feet close together and your head between your knees. Maintain minimal contact with the ground and do not lie flat.
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Caught in a tornado while camping
When camping and caught by a tornado, retreat to a ditch or other low area. Get as low to the ground as possible and cover your head from possible debris. Do not seek shelter under an overpass, they act as wind tunnels during a tornado.
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Floods and flash floods while camping
Most people underestimate the threat of water. Never attempt to drive through standing water. It only takes 18 to 24 inches to float most vehicles. Canyons are particularly prone to flash floods. Pay attention not only to the weather around you but also upstream. If flooding is a possibility in your camp area, immediately move to higher ground.
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Severe changes in climate while camping
Campers should remain cognizant of possible severe weather shifts. They also need to be mindful of extreme temperatures or sudden climate shifts. Extremely cold temperatures and winds rob heat from the body which increases your risk for hypothermia and frostbite. When camping in the winter, pack extra blankets, food and water to reduce these risks.
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Be weather wise and prepared for a safe and enjoyable camping experience
Check the long-range weather forecast before you leave home. NOAA’s Web site can be found at www.weather.gov. Carry a weather radio at all times. It can be programmed to a specific location and provide life-saving notification of a fast-developing storm. Talk to your camping group and develop a contingency plan should bad weather arise.
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Buy a reliable generator that provides safety while camping
When RVers are caught in severe weather, they can have the electricity they need to operate communication devices to monitor the storm and signal for help if necessary. In addition to powering weather devices for travelers, generators can make camping more comfortable by supplying power to air conditioners to cool the RV or run heaters on cold days.
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Bicycle safety
Attach a piece of reflective tape to the edges of the pedals on your bicycle and along the lower ends of the mudguards.
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Digging for fishing worms
Since worms are insensitive to the color of red, cover the end of your flashlight with a red rag. This prevents them from scattering and they become easier to catch.
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Camping matches
To ensure that matches are kept dry while camping, keep them in an old prescription bottle or in an empty film box.
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Extend life of tennis balls
Give a good bounce to your worn tennis balls by individually wrapping them in foil and then putting them in the oven at 200 degrees F° for half an hour. You can repeat this treatment several times.
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Storing batteries
Keep your batteries dry and handy. An empty container of film may contain two batteries of type 'AA'.
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Wet matches
Dip the tip of a wet match in a bottle of nail polish and it will ignite.
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Varnish smells
Avoid the smell of varnish. Place a pot of milk in the room where you're working. Or, put a spoonful of vanilla in the varnish!
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