![\"cobbold](\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/AT_2018FEB05_Native_GorgeousGorges1_2.jpg\")
The wide expanse of the Queensland outback (photo: Brook James).<\/p><\/div>\n
They\u2019re far easier to spot than people wandering about, and offer an extra level of comfort at night and shade during the day.<\/p>\n
Safety First<\/h2>\n
Depending on where you get stuck or break down you might be faced with different dangers; a dried-up riverbed might seem safe, but flash floods or crocs in remnant water or dingos seeking a drink (and food) could pose an unforeseen risk.<\/p>\n\n
Likewise, if you are by a water\u2019s edge, it is good to seek higher ground while remaining close enough to the vehicle to be found. Safety and visibility are\u00a0top priorities together with supplies \u2013 mainly water.<\/p>\n
Hydrate like it\u2019s your job<\/h2>\n
Australia is bloody hot \u2013 especially out bush and in summer.<\/p>\n
![\"hot](\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/alice-springs_ballooning_jpinkerton67.jpg\")
Red dirt aplenty: hot air ballooning outback Alice Springs (photo: Jennifer Pinkerton).<\/p><\/div>\n
Now, keeping hydrated is the key. The kids, especially, will need periodic hydrating on the hour (supplies permitting). Avoid more frequent small sips, opting for less regular but more hearty gulps to ensure there\u2019s enough H20 being absorbed.<\/p>\n\n
Make sure you look after yourself too though, as it\u2019s you who\u2019s in charge of keeping everyone safe.<\/p>\n
Staying cool and strong<\/h2>\n
Depending on what\u2019s in your vehicle, you\u2019ll either be setting up your own shade or seeking the best of what nature has to offer.<\/p>\n\n
Be it an awning, tarp or tree, staying in the shade is the best way to keep the body temp down and keep a cool head. Avoid unnecessary strenuous exercise when you can; preserve your energy\u00a0for important jobs like searching for food or\u00a0water.<\/p>\n
Water is more important than food<\/h2>\n
A\u00a0person of good health can go for up to three weeks without food. Without water, however, it\u2019s four days at best, so it\u2019s pretty important you get this side of things sorted for your involuntarily extended stay in the bush.<\/p>\n
![\"Ormiston](\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Ormiston_1-Bain.jpg\")
Outback: Oasis waterhole: Ormiston Gorge, Larapinta Trail (photo: Andrew Bain).<\/p><\/div>\n
What you\u2019ll want to do is set up a rain trap. A tarp is best, however any non-absorbent material could work too. Use cable ties or rope to sling it up and make sure there\u2019s a bucket or receptacle underneath to collect the rainwater.<\/p>\n\n
Setting up a condensation water trap is another great way to collect water \u2013 just in case it does not rain.<\/p>\n
Getting help<\/h2>\n
Assuming you\u2019ve done the smart thing and let people know when and where you\u2019re going, soon enough people will start searching for you \u2013 let\u2019s hope.<\/p>\n\n
Once they\u00a0figure out that you haven\u2019t returned on\u00a0time, the search party will head out. To\u00a0help them find you put reflective surfaces such\u00a0as aluminium foil, mirrors and even CDs up, all around where the sun can catch, sparkle\u00a0and reflect.<\/p>\n
![\"Coober](\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2007\/04\/100-Things-You-Have-Never-Heard-Of-16-Painted-Hills-Coober-Pedy-1-of-5.jpg\")
The heaps formed by mining for opals pock the landscape at Coober Pedy. Outback South Australia<\/p><\/div>\n
Place these items strategically around your campsite and vehicle\u00a0to increase your chance of being spotted, making sure you\u2019re covering a 360-degree radius. Depending on appropriate\u00a0weather conditions a burning campfire is another great way to catch the attention of helicopters \u2013 however, you don\u2019t\u00a0want to start a bushfire either.<\/p>\n
Mark out the word HELP<\/h2>\n
While you can\u2019t pick the spot you break down at, you can minimise the risk once you have. If you are near a clearing or open view from above, use branches and rocks to mark out a visual marker \u2013 \u2018HELP\u2019 in large letters is the safest bet.<\/p>\n\n
This will help rescuers spot you from above should your vehicle be hidden.<\/p>\n
Prevention is always best<\/h2>\n
The best way to stay alive in the outback is to be prepared and prevent where possible. Invest in a satellite phone, purchase yourself a solar-powered water-purifying device and solar-powered lights for night-time visibility.<\/p>\n
![\"Darwin](\"https:\/\/s1.at.atcdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/darwiroad.jpg\")
Australian red center landscape on a road from Uluru to Alice Springs.<\/p><\/div>\n
Bring plenty of long-life food, a jerry can or two of extra fuel (and always keep these full) and, of course, ample water. If you are prepared properly, and are well stocked, your emergency situation will\u00a0almost feel like a special camp-spot for quality family time!<\/p>\n\n
Following this guide can help keep you and the family safe out in the bush. Australia is a marvellous place, however, she can be very unforgiving \u2013 don\u2019t take unnecessary chances, and stay vigilant out there. Safe Travels.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
With its unparalleled beauty and endless reaches, the Aussie outback holds its own. And, while the bush certainly brings its own charm \u2013 it also brings dangers. School holidays are the time to get away with the whole family and to take a break from the mundane everyday and the familiar. And, while luxurious overseas […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":181,"featured_media":181176,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"article-deals.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_expiration-date-status":"","_expiration-date":0,"_expiration-date-type":"","_expiration-date-categories":[],"_expiration-date-options":[]},"categories":[4418],"tags":[5847,6321,6322,1402,5713,5138,4748,6394,1051,6434,4628],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n