It’s the great Australian Christmas tradition to explore our great country, which means you are often in areas that you don’t know well. In the height of summer this can place you in danger from bushfires. With the holiday season upon us, families need to remember to prepare before they leave home, by thoroughly servicing their car for the long road ahead.
If your trip takes you into the Australian bush, there are a number of things you can do to keep you and your family safe.
First of all, have a good map of the area you are travelling in, which also marks the road surface type. Take heed of any signs that warn of fire danger and never go off the tourist track without checking with the local police station for advice.
In the event of impending fire, keep your mobile phone handy, heed to any information that emergency services dispense and be aware of smoke in the immediate area. The basics of survival are that you must have plenty of water on board, a first aid kit and that your SUV or car is well serviced and reliable. Never try and out run a fire-storm!.
If you are caught in a bushfire situation with no options to move, park in the clearest, barest area possible that you can find, away from tall grass and other vegetation, wind up all windows, shut all vents tightly, cover yourself with mats, rugs and jackets and tuck yourself under the dashboard or the floor. If possible, park your vehicle with the rear facing the oncoming fire.
Only emerge from your car when you are sure that you are upwind of the blaze and once all smoke has sufficiently cleared. As always, please remember, ‘if in doubt, don’t risk it’.
