Key risks

• Cuts and punctures when handling tools, tent pegs, knives or metal edges.
• Burns and fires from the use of camping stoves, lanterns, braziers or hot surfaces.
• Trips and falls due to guy lines, tent pegs and accessories placed in walkways.
• Trapping or pinching injuries from the folding mechanisms of chairs, tables or beds.
• Electrical hazards and overheating in rechargeable torches, power banks and cables, especially in damp conditions.
• Toppling or collapse of awnings and tarpaulins in windy conditions if not properly anchored.
• Contamination of water or food due to dirty containers or improper use.
• Choking or accidental ingestion of small parts by children.

Safe use

• Inspect each accessory before use: seams, fastenings, tensioners, blades, anchors and overall condition.
• Set up and anchor awnings and tarpaulins on stable ground; drive in tent pegs fully and adjust the tensioners without over-tightening.
• Keep walkways clear and mark guy lines and pegs with reflective or high-visibility markers to prevent trips.
• Use stoves and flame-producing appliances only outdoors or in well-ventilated areas; never inside tents or vehicles.
• Keep heat sources away from fabrics, fuels and combustible items; do not leave them lit or switched on unattended.
• Handle knives and multi-tools with the blade pointing away from your body; lock folding blades where applicable.
• With electrical or rechargeable equipment, use compatible chargers, avoid moisture and do not cover devices while charging.
• Use containers intended for water and food; wash them before first use and after each trip.
• Check the stability of chairs and tables before sitting; do not sit on edges or use them as steps.
• Use recreational ropes and carabiners only for tensioning tarpaulins or organising kit; not for supporting people or critical loads.
• In strong winds or storms, lower or take down awnings and secure loose items.

Storage and maintenance

• Clean and thoroughly dry textiles, tarpaulins, utensils and metal surfaces before storing to prevent mould and corrosion.
• Store accessories in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
• Remove batteries from devices if they will not be used for a while; recharge power banks periodically.
• Protect blades and points with their sheaths; store sharp objects separately from the rest of the equipment.
• Rinse and dry water containers; avoid keeping liquids stored for long periods.
• Regularly check cords, tensioners, fastenings, tent pegs and elastic cords (bungees); replace any worn or damaged parts.
• If the accessory uses gas or fuel, store it in a ventilated place and away from sources of ignition, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• If you notice unusual odours, warping, cracks or corrosion, stop using the item and consider replacing it.

Restrictions of use

• Do not use camping accessories as protective, climbing, suspension or lifting equipment for people or critical loads.
• Do not use stoves, braziers, lanterns with an open flame or charcoal inside tents, vehicles or enclosed spaces.
• Do not exceed the load, volume or capacity recommended by the manufacturer for chairs, tables, backpacks, containers or tensioners.
• Do not modify or puncture cartridges, tanks, pressurised containers or electrical devices.
• Do not use electrical appliances, or devices while charging, on flammable materials, near water or in the rain unless they are designed for it.
• Do not leave heat sources, candles or lights on unattended.
• Keep accessories out of reach of children and animals; handling knives, stoves or fuels requires adult supervision.
• Avoid using awnings or lightweight structures in strong gusts of wind or during thunderstorms.