Safety in and around the bush

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Parks and reserves are natural environments that can be unpredictable. To reduce risks and stay safe, follow the advice below.

Bushwalking safety

Let someone know before you go and avoid going alone

  • Tell someone your route, when you are expected back and what to do if you’re late. A text message to 2 people with the details in writing is helpful. Always remember to let those people know when you have returned safely.
  • Where possible, record your party's details in bushwalking registers at the start of remote walking trails.
  • Share the track. Walkers should give way to horses, cyclists should give way to walkers and horses, and horse riders should exercise caution around other users.

Know your limits

  • Research your trip. Choose walks or activities that match your abilities, fitness and stamina, purchase a high-quality map before you go, download offline maps for portable devices, and take note of any opening or closing times.
  • Check the weather conditions and be prepared for changes regardless of the forecast, particularly in colder months.
  • Carry clothing sufficient for the worst conditions you could encounter. In the mountains or in colder months, consider multiple warm layers top and bottom, a waterproof, hooded jacket, waterproof overpants, mittens and a balaclava or beanie.
  • Ensure your footwear is up to the task. Quality boots and socks will protect your feet and help keep you warm.
  • Pack extra food, a hat and sunscreen, and avoid dehydration, especially in summer, by carrying sufficient water. Treat water from creeks or tanks before drinking it. Water is available outside the Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre and you can also purchase water from the visitor centres at Tidbinbilla or Namadgi before heading out.
  • Check road conditions, road closures (via visitor centres) and use a 4WD or chains when required in winter.
  • Plan your journey so you have enough time to get back to your car before dark or, if you’re visiting Tidbinbilla, enough time to exit the reserve before the gates are locked

Understand the dangers

  • Stick to the tracks to avoid getting lost and to minimise your impact on the natural environment.
  • Do not enter areas that are closed.
  • You need the right preparation, equipment, skills and training for bushwalking in more remote areas. If you are interested in exploring remote tracks, seek training from a reputable provider beforehand and always carry navigation equipment including spare batteries/ charger if needed If you get lost or injured off track, there is no guarantee that we will be able to find you or help you.
  • If entering an ACT pine plantation, please be aware that they are working plantations. Do not enter areas that are closed. You are responsible for your own safety and of those in your care. Do not enter worksites without the work supervisor's permission.
  • Avoid forests and woodlands during very windy weather to avoid the risk of falling trees and limbs.

Be prepared for an emergency

  • Take a first aid kit and ensure you or a member of your group is trained in remote first aid.
  • Be aware that mobile phone reception may be unreliable and GPS may not work in many areas outside the Canberra suburbs.
  • Consider hiring a personal locator beacon (available for hire from Namadgi Visitor Centre or Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre)
  • Locate and keep a look out for emergency phones at Cotter Campground and Casuarina Sands where there is no reception.

Bushfire safety

Do not enter parks, reserves or plantations:

If you are already in a park, then think seriously about leaving. Report all bushfires to 000 and leave the area immediately.

Before you go, check weather conditions and the fire danger rating in the area you are visiting.

Smoke from bushfires and prescribed burning activities can be a trigger for people with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Asthma Australia has information and tips to help keep you safe from the effects of smoke.

Camping safety

In addition to the suggestions above, you should:

  • camp in designated campsites or on durable surfaces, away from flood-prone sites
  • be considerate of other campers
  • look up - avoid camping under dead limbs or within reach of dead or fire-affected trees
  • know the campfire rules - campfires may only be lit in constructed fireplaces provided and are not permitted in remote areas, where you should be equipped with a portable stove