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Camping is lots of fun. Sitting around the campfire roasting hot dogs and marshmallows is the stuff of which memories are made. Sometimes after dark, the camper may need to walk around or otherwise be away from the light of the fire. A trip back and forth to the restroom or to another campsite may need a little light along the way. That is when the camping lantern is indispensable. Camping lanterns can use various types of fuel but all of them need to have basic safety rules followed.
If you don’t have an LED camping lantern and opt for a gasoline powered one, always fill or refill it outside and away from your tent or camper. Fill lanterns before it gets dark so that it is easy to see what is going on and prevent spills. It should be a habit to fill all lanterns at dusk. This keeps campers safe and prepared. The same could be said of battery rechargeable camping lanterns. If it is the habit of the camper to check all light and fuel sources at dusk, they will be ready. Set up a plastic tote that has everything needed to refuel and maintain lanterns. Keep extra mantles, fuel, and other parts that frequently need replacing.
Always put a camp lantern on a flat even surface, or hang it up securely. Use a picnic table, piece of flat wood on the ground or other flat secure surface. Lanterns can be hung but keep them away from tents, tarps or other flammable materials. Keep wicks turned down so that plenty of light is coming out but the lantern is not smoking or flaming.
Never leave a lantern unattended for any reason. Keep them out of reach of children, as the glass and metal are very hot and will burn when touched. Even when not in use keep them where children will not explore how they work. Keep fuel locked up in a leak proof plastic container.
Use only battery powered lanterns in a tent or cabin. The risk is just too great to use anything else. Battery operated lanterns will provide sufficient light for such a small space. These lanterns do not get hot and provide a safe source of light if needed during the night. If the family usually camps in a well-lit campground, make the move to all battery lanterns.
