Safe on the trailadmin2024-08-31T17:39:10+10:00

Your Guide to

Staying Safe
on the trail

Trail winding ahead, sun on your shoulders, and leaves whispering beneath your boots – you’re deep in the Aussie bush. It’s easy to get lost in the beauty, but remember, a safe return needs some planning too. Think of this page as your on-trail guide, packed with tips to ensure you get back home with just the memories, not the worries.

Navigation

Use your map and compass: Even if you have a GPS device, knowing how to navigate with a map and compass is crucial. Familiarise yourself with the map before you start and regularly check your location throughout the hike.

Be aware that mobile reception can be unreliable in remote areas. GPS and mobile phones help but they should not replace preparation, as you may unexpectantly fall out of GPS range.

Stay on the trail: This is the most important rule for staying safe. Avoid venturing off into unmarked areas, as it’s easy to get lost, especially in dense bushland.

Respect park and trail closures: Park and trail closures safeguard visitors and the environment. They protect against hazards, sensitive ecosystems, and facilitate maintenance. By respecting closures and consulting official sources, you become a responsible steward, ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences for all.

Stay Alert

Watch out for wildlife: Australia boasts incredible wildlife, but remember, we’re guests in their home. Stay vigilant on the trail and avoid contact with animals, especially snakes, kangaroos, and emus. Store your food securely to avoid attracting unwanted guests. Remember, respecting wildlife means protecting both them and you.

Look for hazards: Watch out for slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential drop-offs. Take your time and use your hands for balance on difficult sections.

Be observant: Watch where you are going and where you have been. It’s important to remember what the trail looks like behind you in case you need to retrace your steps.

Be weather aware: Weather conditions can change quickly in the outdoors. If the weather turns bad, find shelter, or seek help immediately.

Stay hydrated and fuelled

Drink plenty of water: Even on short hikes, dehydration can be a serious risk. Aim to drink at least 2 litres of water per day, more if it’s hot or you’re exerting yourself. Become familiar with signs of dehydration, heat stroke, and hypothermia.

Eat snacks and meals regularly: Pack energy-rich snacks and a nutritious food to keep your energy levels up. Avoid heavy meals before or during the hike. Become familiar with the signs of physical and mental fatigue as these can affect your judgement and decision making.

BE PREPARED FOR BUMPS AND SCRAPES

Even the most careful hiker can encounter minor injuries. Pack a basic first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and insect repellent.

Learn how to handle common hiking injuries like cuts, scrapes, insect bites, blisters, and sprains. Remember, knowing what to do in an emergency can make a world of difference.

Know Your Limits

Beyond bumps and scrapes, remember your body’s limits. Track your hydration and be familiar with signs of dehydration, heat stroke, and hypothermia. Dizziness, muscle cramps, and excessive thirst are red flags for dehydration.

Watch for chills, confusion, and rapid heartbeat indicating potentially serious conditions like heat stroke or hypothermia.

Prioritise rehydration, shade, and shelter as needed, and don’t hesitate to seek help if symptoms worsen. Taking care of your physical well-being is just as crucial as mental resilience for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Don’t push yourself too hard: Take breaks when you need them and don’t be afraid to turn back if you’re feeling tired, unwell, or lost.

Stay Connected

Tell someone your plans: Before you start your hike, let a friend or family member know your chosen trail, estimated duration, and expected return time. This way, someone can raise the alarm if you’re overdue.

Carry a communication device: If possible, bring a mobile phone and satellite communicator or personal locator beacon (PLB) in case you need to call for assistance.

Be aware that mobile reception can be unreliable in remote areas. GPS and mobile phones help but they should not replace preparation, as you may unexpectantly fall out of GPS range.

Emergency preparedness

Become familiar with emergency markers located along bushwalking tracks. They are designed to pinpoint your exact location during an emergency in public open spaces or a hard to define places. They display three letters and three numbers which gives an exact location of where the markers are.

Have communications equipment that will work where you are going – like a satellite phone if you’re going for extended periods across low coverage areas. Consider if you’ll need radio backup, a Personal Locator Beacon, a copy of any important phone numbers, a phone charger, battery pack or other communications supplies.

Your Guide to

Staying Safe
on the trail

Navigation

Stay Alert

Stay hydrated and fuelled

BE PREPARED FOR BUMPS AND SCRAPES

Know Your Limits

Stay Connected

Emergency preparedness

Stress and Mental Fatigue

What to do if you become lost

Explore with Confidence

Your Guide to

Staying Safe on the trail

Navigation

Stay Alert

Stay hydrated and fuelled

BE PREPARED FOR BUMPS AND SCRAPES

Know Your Limits

Stay Connected

Emergency preparedness

Stress and Mental Fatigue

What to do if you become lost

Leave No Trace

Explore with Confidence

Staying Safe
on the trail