Preparing to Drive in the Bush
Travelling by car in the outback can be a daunting prospect, especially when you are alone and hundreds of kilometres away from any recognisable town or city. Ensuring that you are adequately prepared for the journey could ultimately save your life, if you breakdown without the means to call for help. Here is a list of essential items and actions that should be followed to help you to reduce the risk of injury or death and to find civilisation again.
Stay with the Car
This sounds obvious but staying with your car and trying to call somebody should be your first thought. In the searing heat, a car provides a source of shade and protection from animals and is far easier to locate than a person amongst the foliage and dirt.
If you're planning on travelling a great distance and there is a reasonable risk of breaking down far from civilisation, then make sure you tell someone where you are going, which route you are taking and when you expect to arrive. This will allow them to check up on you and direct the emergency services should you fail to make it to your destination.
Carry Water and Supplies
If you do get stranded, then having adequate water and food will help you to survive for longer before you are found. Being well hydrated and energised will also stop your from suffering from fatigue and keep you mentally alert; being malnourished and dehydrated will only serve to panic you and potentially cause you to make rash decisions. Ideally the average adult should aim to drink approximately three litres of water per day, according to Better Health. Taking more than this in a large jerry can will help to compensate for excess water lost through heat.
Be Aware of Fire
Always listen to the local reports regarding bushfires and keep up-to-date with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) warnings. Changing your route or delaying your journey is always recommended if necessary, however carrying a woollen blanket or dedicated fire blanket is strongly advised to help protect you from a bushfire that approaches your vehicle. Parking on a non-flammable fuel sources such as dirt is also advised, as vegetation can quickly catch fire and cause intense heat underneath the car. Winding up all of the windows will help to reduce the rate of smoke entering the car, which cannot be avoided completely; however, it may provide enough time for the front of the fire to pass over you.
For more information, contact professionals like United Tilt Tray Service.