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Whether you are heading to the beach, the bush, or the outback, here are a few things to consider and plan for before you go.Preparing for a flood Preparing for a floodEight steps to being prepared Flooding can happen at any time and sometimes with little warning. Therefore preparation is key to making sure you, your family and your friends are safe, as well as reducing the damage to your home and treasured belongings. Even before bad weather is forecast, on a quiet evening when you have some spare time there is one important task you can carry out… Pack an emergency Grab bag – find an easy to carry and sturdy bag and pack it with warm clothes, a torch (with spare batteries), a radio (wind-up or battery powered), food, water, mobile phone (with useful numbers included) and charger, any medication you require, any important documents you have and a first aid kit. Make sure the bag is easy to find so you can quickly take it with you when needed in an emergency. If a flood warning has been issued, follow these eight steps to be as well prepared as you can be. Tick off each step to reveal the next. Go to Preparing for a flood Flood emergency tools could save lives Flood emergency tools could save livesand maybe the difference between life and death The message from authorities is clear: If it’s flooded, forget it. But in the unexpected event of a flood emergency, road safety experts say just three items could mean the difference between life and death.
Source A storm is brewing: Your essential wild weather checklist A storm is brewing: Your essential wild weather checklistQueenslanders are a pretty resilient bunch when it comes to natural disasters, and as the most disaster-prone state in the country, we need to make sure we’re ready for whatever comes our way. Like … tropical cyclones. Although we’ve been through it all before, it pays to reset and check that you’re prepared when the first storm of the season hits. Plan ahead now and cross off this storm-ready checklist to safeguard your home and family. Read More Source The Ten Essentials The Ten Essentials are survival items that hiking and Scouting organisations recommend for safe travel in the bush. The Ten Essentials first appeared in print in the third edition of Mountaineering Freedom of the Hills Mountaineers (January 1974). Many regional organisations and authors recommend that hikers, backpackers, and climbers rigorously ensure they have the ten essentials with them. However, personal preferences and differences in conditions may dictate otherwise and with experience most adventurers add and subtract from the list depending on the situation. Some lightweight hikers do not always carry all of the items and believe it is an acceptable risk they take in order to travel light and fast. According to the eighth edition of Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills book there are ten essentials, which are now referred to as the “classic” essentials. While still valid and widely used they do not reflect modern outdoor sports and all of the new gadgets that now are common. Classic Essentials
In 2003, the essential list was revised as part of the seventh edition of Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills to keep up with modern equipment. The current edition, 8th edition continues with the new essentials list with no major revisions. The new list takes a “systems” or functional approach. The Current The Ten Essentials
The textbook recommends supplementing the ten essentials with:
Some experts recommend having duplicates of the Essentials in different sized kits: in pockets, on key rings, in pocket kits, belt pouches, belt packs, day packs, and backpacks. Sources: Trail Hiking Australia & Wikipedia Bushwalking Bushfire Safety Bushwalking Bushfire SafetyAustralia like several other countries in the world has a reputation for serious bushfires. A basic understanding of bushfires is useful if you are a bushwalker or spend time in the outdoors. Read More Disaster Preparedness While Camping and Hiking Disaster Preparedness While Camping and HikingThere is some evidence that human-caused climate change is leading to an increase in the severity of weather-related natural disasters. Wildfires may become more prevalent during droughts, hurricanes can be intensified by warmer weather over the oceans, and more severe inland storms can cause unexpected flooding and mudslides. This has implications for how we organize our cities, and how we conduct and execute disaster-relief plans, but it’s also important for outdoors enthusiasts to be ready for whatever comes their way. Even if the weather does not become more intense due to global climate change, hikers and campers should still be prepared for any sort of conditions that they may encounter outdoors. In these environments, where there’s not always the comfort of a sturdy roof or room enough to store weeks worth of supplies, it’s critical to be prepared for any sort of natural disaster. In this guide, you will find information about the kinds of disasters that may strike, how to survive them, and how to be prepared for whatever may come your way in the wild. Read More Source Safety Guidelines for Children and Young People in Sport and Recreation Safety Guidelines for Children and Young People in Sport and RecreationThese guidelines will assist you to provide a safe and positive experience for those involved in junior sport and active recreation. These guidelines have been developed to support safe participation in sport and recreation for children and young people. Injury is a known barrier to participation and it is estimated that 50% of injuries are preventable. From the Australian Government, Dept of Health & Aging How to stay safe at swimming holes How to stay safe at swimming holesPhoto by @tim_ashelford Local swimming holes offer sweet relief from the blistering summer heat, cold glistening water and hangouts with mates – surrounded by the screeching of cicadas. This is the time to be found drifting gently in quiet lagoons, splashing in ponds and dams, and chilling under magnificent waterfalls. Sadly, behind the scenes this perfect summer image is tainted. Statistics tell us that every year visitors to our waterways are drowning … here are a few simple ways to stay safe at swimming holes, while still having fun! Source Sun & Heat Sun Safety Queensland Not just Slip, Slop, Slap! Beat the Heat UV Exposure and Heat Illness Guide Heat Related Illness In the Mountains In the Mountains
New Zealand Resource from Wilderlife Trip Intentions A collection of resources to help you decide how best to leave your trip intentions with somebody responsible – where you are going, what you are doing, emergency contacts and so on; or to create your own Trip Intentions Form. Trip Intentions (website) Bugle (iPhone app) Let Someone Know Before You Go (AdventurePro) Get Home Safe (Smartphone app) Trip safety – what you can do to stay safe in the bush (Bush Search & Rescue Victoria) Outdoor Information Sheet (Victoria Police) Trip Intention Form (NSW Parks & Wildlife) Adventurous Journey Intentions Sheet (Duke of Edinburgh Australia) NZ Outdoor Intentions Form (NZ Mountain Safety Council) Route Intention Form (Tramping New Zealand) Outdoors Intentions for Land-based Activities (Adventuresmart NZ) Bush Safety Queensland has spectacular wilderness areas perfect for bushwalking, mountain biking, canoeing, camping or picnics, etc. Our National Parks and State Forests, in particular, provide wonderful outdoor recreation experiences. Be prepared if you plan to spend some time in the bush.
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Beach Safety Queensland’s beaches are one of our most popular outdoor recreation areas. If you enjoy swimming or surfing you must take care as our beaches can be dangerous.
Water Safety in Australia Southern Cross University Water & Snow Safety Water & Snow Safety Because of Australia’s climate and population distribution, most people access coastal beaches or inland bodies of water for aquatic recreational or sporting activities. Swimming pools, both public and private, also provide opportunities for aquatic activities. Swimming is a popular leisure, fitness participation, and competitive activity. Therefore, aquatic safety is a national priority. The Australian government also recognises the seasonal requirements for snow safety and has invested in programs and provides grants to organisations enabling snow (alpine) safety. Together, aquatic and snow safety strategies are part of the Australia Government’s National Recreation Safety Program – Water and Snow Safety Key Messages
Source Choosing the Right Lifejacket Choosing the Right Lifejacket Lifejackets are a vital piece of safety equipment that could save your life. The best idea is to make sure you wear it. Put the lifejacket on as part of your pre-trip preparation. It is a lot harder to put a lifejacket on in the water during an emergency. Outback Safety Queensland’s outback is a vast, wonderful and rewarding place for four wheel driving and trail horse rides, etc. Our remote wilderness areas have few towns and facilities (with large distances between them), so plan your trip and be prepared.
Dehydration To drink or not to drink? Dehydration is a major risk associated with prolonged, strenuous, outdoor activities which can include professional and recreational water sports. The risk is compounded in hot weather, and if not managed appropriately can have major consequences. What is Dehydration? Dehydration is simply loss of body fluid, primarily through sweating. In an exercise situation profuse sweating and rapid expiration can cause dehydration. Signs of Dehydration
Management of Dehydration The foremost treatment for dehydration is prevention. On average our bodies require 2 – 2½ litres of fluid per day to maintain adequate hydration levels. Sweating, increased activity and heat stress will cause fluid loss therefore fluid intake should equal or preferably exceed the amount lost. An adequate intake of water will be sufficient to prevent dehydration in normal circumstances, however in hot weather, or during periods of increased physical activity where there is a danger of extreme dehydration occurring, water alone will be inappropriate. The body requires sodium in order to retain fluid so therefore a higher intake of fluids with the correct balance of electrolytes and carbohydrates, in the form of sugar, will be required. It should be noted that fluids which are high in sugar are not ideal as these could potentially worsen the degree of dehydration, therefore fruit juices and some Sports and Energy drinks should be avoided if possible. Alcohol and caffeine containing drinks are not ideal as these will only increase the level of dehydration because of their diuretic effect. Thirst is one of the last manifestations of dehydration and as exercise blunts the thirst mechanism it is therefore essential to be conscious of the need to rehydrate during periods of physical activity. Download Fact Sheet Source: Fatigue Management and Driving Fatigue Management and Driving Most fatigue-related accidents occur during normal sleeping hours, and the more severe the crash, the more likely it is that the driver or drivers were fatigued. Fatigue is a likely factor in almost one third of single-vehicle crashes in rural areas. Outdoor Safety Code The five basic rules of the Outdoor Safety Code make it easier to ensure you can enjoy yourself in the outdoors and have great stories to share at the end. The rules were devised by outdoor experts to help keep you safe on your chosen adventure. Preparation is critical, and safety and enjoyment go hand in hand. Never mind if you’re planning a half-day fishing trip or a multi-day bushwalk. Risk is not always measured by the length of a trip or the particular challenges of a destination. Follow these five basic rules, and you’ll be off to a flying start on your next adventure. Plan your trip Tell someone Be aware of the weather Know your limits Take sufficient supplies The 5 safety points above have been created through expert consultation and are the core to all outdoor safety practices. All of the points can be expanded upon depending on your specific recreation and geographic location, so use them as a starting point and make sure you know all you can about your activity before you head out. Sources First AidGuide to Wilderness Medicine for Outdoor Professionals and First Responders Guide to Wilderness Medicine for Outdoor Professionals and First RespondersWhile written for a US based outdoor sector this article contains valuable commentary for Australian outdoor professionals (QORF) The wilderness can be a harsh environment. Relatively common injuries can turn into infections without immediate access to proper treatment. Meanwhile, dehydration and shock are both serious threats if you aren’t prepared for your time outdoors. Additionally, there is the possibility of an animal attack while hiking on a trail. Advanced care might be hours or even days away. This is when a minor injury can become severe and major trauma can take a turn for the worse, which is why it’s essential to take the appropriate steps in stopping (or minimizing) any injury progression. The need for accessible primary care during this time is becoming a concern — especially for those in remote and rural areas. Read Full Article Source Snakebite! Snakebite! Updated advice and procedures following the publication of a new snakebite study. The Australian Snakebite Project. The study has prompted the RFDS to reverse previous long-standing advice about the importance of identifying the colour and type of snake. “Staying in the area after an attack can be dangerous and recent advances in medication mean we can now treat any snakebite with a generic polyvalent anti-venom, so identification is no longer necessary.” Source Guide to Remote First Aid Guide to Remote First Aid Be prepared with this practical first-aid guide for everything from blisters to heart attacks. Source: Australian Geographic Outdoor Wilderness First Aid Basics Wilderness First Aid Basics Wilderness first aid is the knowledge and ability to effectively address injury, illness, or emergency outside of modern facilities, out in the wild. Skills could include knowing how to dress a wound, treat a burn or bite, or set an injured limb. These are important skills that can save your life or the lives of other outdoor enthusiasts. See also First Aid for Emergency Situations Source Building your own first aid kit Building your own first aid kitPreparation “failure” for outings in the great outdoors can result in a wide variety of potential misadventures. These range from nursing a smarting headache or finger wound for days on end to facing a fight for survival after a fall or allergic reaction. Gladly, our chances of avoiding many such misfortunes rise significantly with a little bit of know-how and the addition of one simple but essential gear item. Enter the hiking, backpacking and camping first aid kit. Source First Aid Training Providers First Aid Training Providers A list of companies that provide first aid training to the outdoor sector. Please contact them directly for information on course schedules, unit standards and prices. How will you maintain safety while doing the recreation activities?4 Tips to Boost Safety. Travel with a Buddy. In the case that something goes terribly wrong, you don't want to be alone. ... . Be in Good Physical Condition. Whether you're playing soccer or going mountain biking you need to be in good physical condition for your activity. ... . Wear Appropriate Clothing. ... . Be Weather Wise.. What is recreational safety?Recreational safety refers to safety pertaining to leisure or risk-taking activities. Swimming in the sea, riding a bicycle around the neighborhood, boating, skiing, skydiving, and so forth are all examples of recreations many of us enjoy.
What are the benefits in engaging outdoor activity and safety tips?Benefits of Being Outdoors and Physical Activity. You will be happier. Exercising outdoors isn't just good for your physical health. ... . Your self-esteem will improve. Outdoor exercise stimulates all five senses in a way that indoor activities cannot. ... . Vitamin D levels go up. ... . You will exercise longer and burn more calories.. What are some summer safety tips?Tips to Stay Safe in Summer Months. Stay Cool. Stay in air-conditioned locations as much as possible. ... . Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty. ... . Stay Protected. Avoid strenuous or high-energy activities. ... . Watch for Signs of Heat Stress.. |