By Bridget Sheehan
Nothing beats a summer break, out of the city, to a different place and pace, with beautiful natural surrounds.
But with increasingly unpredictable and extreme weather events, bushfires, floods and heatwaves, it can quickly become risky business.
So, if you are planning a holiday locally, or even a long weekend away, it’s important to prepare.
In the same way that you’d pack your passport and organise medical insurance for an overseas trip, Victoria University (VU) Research Fellow Celeste Young said that when going on holidays in Australia “it’s essential to become aware of the natural risks around you and have a plan.”
She specialises in system-based risk resilience, particularly in relation to climate events and natural hazards – working with tourism companies, all levels of government, and individuals.
“We’re all used to looking into accommodation, bookings and prices – but it’s just as vital to research the natural environment of your destination and have a plan for potential hazards specific to your holiday.
“Being prepared means that if you are caught in one of these events you know what to do. Once we are in the middle of an emergency, we can quickly go into ‘fight or flight’ mode and can make poor decisions. It puts you at risk and it diverts resources away from the local community.”
“It could make the difference between a holiday you’ll always remember and one you just want to forget,” says Ms Young.
Here are some of Ms Young’s top tips to get prepared for a summer break.
On the road
Travelling to a destination:
- If you are taking a camping or driving holiday, be sure to service your car or caravan and check your tyres.
- Pack: sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent and hats; all medication you will need for the trip, plus extra if you are able to; three days of non-perishable food, enough water for three days and some cash to cover you in case you unexpectedly get stuck.
- Put the local emergency contacts numbers into your phone.
- Save important information on your phone, or print in case you have connectivity issues.
- Download the Bureau of Meteorology app and the local hazard app e.g. VicEmergency, TasAlerts, Hazards near me (NSW) and turn on the alerts.
When you arrive
- Make sure you check the emergency evacuation plan and where the evacuation areas are.
- If you want advice about something, campsite and hotel managers can also be a good first point of contact as they know the area.
- Always listen to emergency services – leave means leave.
- Bushfires: if you are in an area where there is a bushfire, leave early. Remember there can be traffic congestion. If you are unable to leave, follow the advice of the emergency services personnel.
- Going inland: if you’re heading to an area that’s remote or mountainous: don’t assume you’ll have internet coverage. Be aware of snakes. If you are going for a hike – always tell someone where you are going.
- Travelling to seas, rivers or lakes: even if you’re a competent swimmer, you can still find yourself in trouble through rips or strong currents. Don’t go in above your waist if you are not familiar with the water.
Above all, Ms Young emphasises to be flexible with your plans: if the weather looks problematic it is better to postpone your activity or change your plans rather than putting yourself or your family at risk. A safe break is a happy break.
