As mentioned, you may drive into some remote areas where forward planning is very important to ensure your experience is safe, enjoyable and memorable. The following is a list of safety tips to help you:
- Always tell someone where you are going, your return dates and your itinerary.
- Make sure your vehicle is in top mechanical condition.
- Check road conditions before departure. Rain can make some tracks and roads impassable. When travelling on unsealed roads use caution and 'read' the road well ahead of the vehicle.
- Carry at least 4-5 litres of water per person, per day (preferably in at least two containers).
- Use a detailed recent road map (it is a good idea to keep track of your mileage so you always know where you are).
- Carry extra food, fuel, water and vehicle spares if you are travelling on remote tracks.
- If your vehicle breaks down or cannot be driven because it is bogged, always stay with it. It is much easier to spot a vehicle during an aerial search than a person under a tree.
- Roads and tracks on private property should not be used without the landholder's permission. Leave gates as you found them.
- Take care at all railway crossings and obey the signs. Train movements can be irregular and not all crossings have flashing lights.
- Large slow-moving agricultural machinery may be encountered on highways and local roads, so take care when overtaking.
- Give way to emergency vehicles.
- Dust and stones can obscure vision or break windscreens when travelling or passing on dirt roads.
- Keep alert for wildlife such as kangaroos and emus, especially at dusk and dawn when visibility may be poor and they become more active.
- Remember to take regular breaks from driving to keep refreshed and admire the sights.
- Be prepared. Pack a first-aid kit.
More information on driving around Australia can be found at www.westernaustralia.com.
