How to Erect a Tent Center Pole
- 1). Place the tent on level ground and stake down each corner. It is important to pull the tent taut so that any large wrinkles are taken out of the tent's bottom section. You will probably need someone to help you do this in the case of most larger tents that have one or more center poles.
- 2). Insert the tip of the center pole in the tent grommet, the small hole in the tent's ceiling. When placing the tip in, make sure not to accidentally spear loose fabric. A tear here is critical because of the leaking problems you will face.
- 3). Grasp the tent pole from the center third of the pole and gentle angle it up until it is completely vertical. Take this step cautiously, exerting even pressure. Sudden movements could tear the tent's fabric or displace the staked corners.
- 4). Secure the remaining exterior stakes and guy lines so that the tent is completely in place. It may be necessary to have someone stand inside with the center pole while this step is carried out, to make sure that the pole doesn't wobble and collapse.
- 5). Fasten any security straps in the tent's ceiling to the top of the center pole. These straps will prevent the center pole from slipping in high winds. Remember to untie the straps when taking down the tent.
