If you plan to spend some time outdoors, walking or hiking, it pays to be prepared. Not only are there many creatures to look out for such as spiders and snakes, but the weather can also be unpredictable.
- Tell someone when/where you're going and how long you expect
to be. And of course, when you return, let them know so they don't
worry about you unnecessarily.
- Check the weather forecast. be prepared for any sudden weather changes.
- Drink plenty of water, especially in warm weather. Allow at last one litre of water per one hour of walking time.
- Wear
sturdy shoes and socks, comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and
insect repellent. On longer bushwalks, it's not a bad idea to also take
along food, warm clothing, a first aid kit, a torch, a compass and a
map.
- Do not feed or play with any of the native animals. They scratch and bite!
- Limit
your use of fire,using a fuel stove outside of your tent for cooking
and be aware of any fire bans or restrictions that are in place. When
putting out your campfire, use water rather than sand or dirt to avoid
serious burns.
- Remember that cigarette butts cause fires
so don't drop or throw them out of you car window. If you do see a
bushfire, evacuate immediately.
- Beware of snakes, spiders, leeches and ticks .
SNAKES
Snake bites
in Australia from land or sea snakes can be
potentially fatal and immediate medical assistance should be sought for all
cases of suspected snake-bite. While not all snakes are venomous, it is
difficult to identify snakes, so all bites should be treated as being
potentially dangerous.
If you or someone you're with is bitten by a snake, call 000 for an ambulance, use the pressure immobilisation technique and have the
patient taken immediately to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.
Antivenom is available.
Contact
the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service if
you have a snake in your yard that you would like to have removed. Do not
attempt to kill or capture the snake yourself.
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