Preparation key to safe bushwalking this Easter

With a wet Easter on the cards for parts of Queensland, Emergency Services Minister Jo-Ann Miller has urged bushwalkers to be well prepared before heading into the great outdoors over the long weekend.

“With Easter upon us again, there will be lots of families looking for ways to keep the kids entertained – and bushwalking is a great way to stay active and have a lot of fun,” Minister Miller said.

“But whether you’re going on a short hike or an extensive trek, preparations are critical to ensuring you’re home safely in time for the Easter Bunny’s arrival.

“Items such as a first aid kit, thermal blanket, food and water supplies and appropriate sleeping equipment are essential for all bushwalkers.

“Always be prepared regardless of the distance of your bushwalk. On a longer bushwalk, or perhaps even a shorter walk on a challenging track, people need to have contingency plans and supplies in place.”

Minister Miller said even the most seasoned bushwalker could become lost or injured.

“Before you head off, make sure you let someone know where you plan to trek to – as well as a rough time they should expect you back,” Minister Miller said.

“It’s also important to ensure you’re wearing proper footwear and to pack additional, warm clothing in case the weather changes.

“We know Queensland’s weather can be unpredictable – and at this stage, it looks like it could rain over much of the Easter break in some parts of Queensland. So please make sure you’re staying up-to-date with the latest forecast.

“While it may disappoint the kids, you may have to postpone or cancel your planned hike – carrying on in heavy rain can be very dangerous and a recipe for disaster.”

SES Acting Assistant Commissioner Peter Jeffrey stressed the importance of purchasing an Emergency Position Indicating Response Beacon (EPIRB) to ensure bushwalkers could be located in the event of an emergency.

“An EPIRB is an essential safety item if you’re heading out of populated areas. If you run into difficulty you can activate the EPIRB and it will notify the search and rescue coordination centre in Canberra, which will then notify the appropriate authorities.

“If you don’t have an EPIRB and you find yourself lost and in need of help, use whatever means you have to alert rescuers,” he said.

“Whether that’s flashing your camera or holding up the illuminated screen of your mobile phone, any light source will help attract the attention of rescue helicopter crews.”

Media contacts:

Brent Davidson (Minister Miller's Office) 0438 696 185

QFES Media: 3635 3310