Whenever you head out into the wild, it pays to be informed and prepared. Camping and spending more time outdoors is one of the best things about summer, but with the prospect of glorious days in the sun and hanging out outside comes the knowledge that we'll soon be faced with the pesky health hazards, including usual sunburns, insect bites, poisonous plants, bumps, bruises, minor scrapes, cut knees, strains and sprains.

So, whether you're camping, spending the vacation at the cottage, or just hanging out outside, it is smart to be prepared and know how to handle common outdoor health risks.

First Aid Kit - Take a first-aid kit when going on a camping trip. Make sure everyone in the family knows where it's kept. Check our First Aid Camping & Outdoors Checklist for list of items your camping kit should have.

Carry a whistle - It is wise to carry a whistle, in case you become injured or lost and need to signal for help.

Use a buddy system - Even if you are going for a short walk, it's a good idea to have a companion in case you run into any difficulty.

Wear proper outdoor clothing and footwear - Make sure you're dressed properly: wear a hat to guard you from the sun, life jacket (if you are going to be on the water), good sturdy footwear, and light loose clothing (preferably warm-weather breathable) and in layers. You will also need waterproof jacket, vest, and sweater for cool summer nights, high-altitude adventures, rainy days or some unpredictable weather.

Cover up to prevent insect bites - Whether you're hiking in the wild, walking in the park, or just hanging out outside, cover up as much skin as possible to reduce the risk of being bitten. Wear bug repellent (sparingly) on skin and on clothing. The most common bites in North America are from mosquitoes, flies, fleas, and ticks.