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ADVICE
Be Outback smart
A sat phone and first aid kit are handy items in the OutbackThe Royal Flying Doctor Service is reminding travellers to be fully prepared when heading into the Outback, especially if you have little experience in remote regions.
A quarter of the emergency medical evacuations the Flying Doctor responds to each year involve city travellers on Outback adventures.
"The distances are greater and the temperatures much hotter, which can result in driver fatigue," RFDS Senior Flight Nurse Karen Barlow said.
"The roads might be less busy, but surfaces can vary greatly and wildlife can be a hazard, especially during the hours of darkness."
>> It's essential that you plan and prepare before you set off, especially if you're not used to Outback conditions.
>> Get good quality maps and plan your route.
>> Don't travel in the hottest part of the year.
>> Be careful of how much you pack on your roof rack; a heavy load on top increases the chances of a roll-over.
>> Store water in small containers instead of one large tank and check all water containers for leaks.
>> Pack a fire extinguisher
>> Do a first aid course and pack a first aid kit
>> In very hot conditions aim to carry 10 litres of water per person per day and don't rely on waterholes, dams, bores, mills, tanks or troughs for water.
>> Get a summary of your medical history and bring all medication and repeat scripts with you.
>> Take a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.
>> In an emergency dial 000 and be prepared to give your location. If you own a smartphone download the 'Emergency +' app which will indicate your longitude and latitude and assist emergency services, including the RFDS, to find you. If you don't have a smartphone, keep an eye on the crossroads as you travel and mark your location on a map.
>> Be aware that some very remote areas have no mobile coverage so make a satellite phone part of your travel pack.
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Written byCaravancampingsales Staff
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Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
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