When you’re camping in wooded areas, it’s important to keep a sharp eye out for poison oak, poison ivy and poison sumac. But do you know what to look out for? There’s a simple mnemonic rhyme that can help you avoid many of these poisonous plants: “Leaves of three, leave them be.”  In most cases, the vines or trees will have clusters of three leaflets, though poison sumac usually has clusters of seven to 13 leaflets. A quick online search for images can help familiarize you with these plants.
Poison Ivy


Most people are sensitive to the plants’ oil — urushiol — which can cause contact dermatitis and produce an itchy, painful rash and/or blistering. Urushiol can be transmitted to the skin by touching any part of the plant, or from contact with a pet or object — like shoes or clothing — that have brushed the plant. It can also spread to the throat and lungs if the plants are burned. Urushiol is absorbed by the skin; once the rash appears, scratching it will not cause further spreading. However, the oils can remain under fingernails, on clothing or on pet fur; so be sure to thoroughly wash anything that may have come into contact with the plant to avoid further outbreaks.

Washing skin with soap and cool water within 5 to 10 minutes of exposure can prevent a reaction, so it’s important to act quickly if you suspect you may have encountered a poisonous plant. If you do get a rash, cold compresses, oatmeal baths, anti-itch creams and over-the-counter antihistamines may provide relief; in severe cases, a doctor may prescribe corticosteroid pills, creams, ointments or shots.

Better RVing Advertisement