Australian Bush and Wildlife and Outback - see also animals 1, 2 and 3 The outback can be a very harsh and dangerous place for the unprepared and ill equipped. Over the years there have been some tragic accidents. Typically the following happen:
• Car break down, tourists have not told anyone of their plans. • Tourist have not brought enough extra food and water. • Tourist gets desperate in the heat. • Tourist starts to walk for help. • Tourist die a gruesome death from thirst.
1. BRING EXTRA WATER = 5 LITER PER PERSON per DAY 2. NEVER EVER LEAVE THE CAR!
Some other things to avoid: DON’T
• Camp next to crocodile rivers. • Go swimming in crocodile rivers. • Drive on rough outback tracks in a conventional petrol driven car. • Drive on roads that have been closed due to rain.
Wear Boots and Long Trousers
When walking in the bush and rainforest be sure to wear boots, thick long socks and long trousers and be careful about putting your hand into holes.
Bushwalking If bushwalking or camping be sure to leave an itinerary with friends and go carefully prepared for the contingency of getting lost. Remember that nights can be freezing despite the daytime temperature.
Ticks and Leeches
Ticks and leeches are common so check your body thoroughly after bushwalking. Ticks can be dangerous if not removed. They can be removed with kerosene or methylated spirits (donąt break the head off inside your body) and leeches can be removed with salt or heat.
Snakes and Spiders
The chances of being attacked, stung or bitten by venomous wildlife are extremely remote but, if a poisonous snake or spider should bite, try to stay calm, wrap the area in a tight bandage, as you would with a sprained ankle (DONąT use a tourniquet or suck out the poison), attach a splint to the limb, keep very still and send for medical help.
Poisonous Marine Life
A similar procedure applies to poisonous marine life. Sea wasps are a deadly type of jellyfish which sting with their tentacles, causing telltale welt marks. Douse the wound with vinegar and donąt remove the stingers. Do not swim in unprotected waters.
Sharks and Crocodiles
Areas of danger - particularly those involving sharks, crocodiles and stingers - have clearly marked signs. Even if your English is less-than-perfect the signs have clear illustrations of the potential dangers of an area.
Sunburn
In summer sunny days have a very high UV factor and are capable of seriously burning the skin.To avoid sunburn, the usual advice applies; wear a hat and high factor sunscreen and avoid exposure to the sun around midday.
Fire Bans
Respect fire bans (broadcast on the radio) and be careful with cigarette butts and broken glass which can ignite bushfires in hot, dry weather. If caught in a fire head for a clearing (avoid dense tree growths). If in a car get off the road, stay in the vehicle, get under the dashboard and cover yourself, preferably with a woollen blanket.
