subject: Tips On Traveling In The Outback [print this page] The Australian Outback is a region Down Under that has been romanticized and glamorized through film and fiction. In reality, this is a dangerous place in the country, not just because of the wildlife, but because of the terrain and the weather conditions. Yet despite the danger, the area has become a favored tourist destination. The following are the facts to be remembered when going to this area in Australia:
1)Nearly four hundred tourists perish in Australia annually. This is a small percentage of the total number of foreign tourists that visit the country. Nearly all of these deaths could have been avoided, such as driving on the wrong side of the road.
2)Many die of exposure or exhaustion when traveling through the Outback. This occurs through motor breakdown or fuel loss when on the road. Much of the Outback remains uninhabited thus leaving many stranded and exposed to the elements without means of communication.
3)When traveling, always have maps of the area. GPS still is spotty in some areas. Another important supply essential is water as the Outback is a desert area. Better have a citizen's band or CB radio available as many areas do not have mobile phone sites for connection.
4)Information is essential. Read up on where you are going and plan ahead. Inform others of your trip and communicate with them on certain periods to assure them of your safety. Have an emergency fail safe plan, such as not checking in after two days would signal that you would be in danger leading to a search party right away.
5)The major condition that affects tourists is heatstroke. Many tourists are not fully acclimatized to the Australian weather, especially during the summer season where temperatures can rise up to fifty degrees Celsius. This can be avoided with proper hydration, keeping cool in shaded areas and wearing light loose fitting clothes. Signs of the condition include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headaches, cramps and dizziness.
6)The Australian sun also has been a major factor in the high incidence of skin cancer in the country. Because of the ultra-violet rays, which still affects the skin cells even during cloudy days, it would be best to wear a hat and slap on sunscreen lotion for safety.
7)It would be best to avoid jumping into an unknown body of water. There is danger of bodily harm if the water is too shallow or if there are sharp rocks under the water. Avoid camping out in dry creek beds as flashfloods can suddenly occur even with a drizzle in your area.
8)When driving in the Outback, do be on the lookout for the wildlife especially kangaroos or wombats as these can cause serious damage to the vehicle and even danger to your person.
by: Bobby Castro
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
