Outback Australia Dangers

Outback Australia Dangers" border="0" alt="Outback Australia Dangers" align="right" src="http://australiaonlinetravel.com/wp-content/uploads/Nullarbor_Plain_Road_Sign.jpg"/>There are two very important facts to keep in mind about the Outback: it has very few inhabitants and very little water. You should observe standard safety precautions for desolate regions:

• tell someone where you’re going and when and where you should arrive; they should have instructions to raise the alarm if you do not appear soon after your intended arrival time;
• carry immense amounts of water;
• travel in a sturdy vehicle; and
• have clothes that can protect against cold, as well as clothes suitable for extremely hot weather.

Keep in mind also that the Outback is very large, much larger than desert regions in most other Western countries. You could easily end up twenty hours’ drive away from emergency help.

In the event of an accident or mechanical problems, do not leave your vehicle, as it is easier to locate from the air than a person or people on foot. If you leave your vehicle you are likely to be the subject of a sad news story about the rescue services finding your car and not you. In any case, your vehicle is where you’re storing your immense amounts of water.

You should also think about carrying a satellite phone or other means of contacting emergency services.