Safety & Planning
Think ahead
Be safe - plan ahead. Visitors should be aware of and prepare for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks.
To stay safe and get the most out of your park visit, please read the safety preparation advice below. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. See full version at Parks Victoria
Quick Check List
Research your trip: Check out short walks, trails and other information on the Park Notes attached to each park.
Make the right choices: Match your walks and activities to your abilities, fitness and stamina. Wear good walking shoes and protective clothing for all activities. Always carry water with you.
Be Sunsmart: Check the Bureau of Meteorology’s daily UV Alert .When the UV Index reaches 3 and above, make sure you wear a broad brimmed hat, long sleeves, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen every 2 hours. Try and stay in the shade during the middle of the day when UV levels reach their maximum. For more information on how to protect yourself from sunburn, visit www.sunsmart.com.au
Check the weather: Some parks may be closed due to major weather events. Check for Change of Conditions in the park you plan to visit before you leave. For weather forecasts and warnings, check the Bureau of Meteorology. Always bring protective clothing in case the weather changes
Be fire aware: Familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information as well as what you can and can't do during danger periods and total fire bans. Check www.emergency.vic.gov.au for information about current fires and for Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans
Allergies: Visitors allergic to insect stings, including those with a history of anaphylaxis, should come completely prepared to reduce the likelihood of an incident. Always wear protective footwear, long trousers and long sleeved shirts to avoid insect bites.
Tree risk: When camping or having a picnic, be aware that trees and limbs may fall unpredictably. Being under or near trees may be dangerous and could cause injury.
In an emergency: Call Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services. Be aware that you may travel out of mobile phone range.
Make sure you’re well prepared and confident with your equipment. Carry water and be sure to check local weather and emergency services for weather and fire/flood warnings.
Read and follow the Code of Conduct signs at major trail entries.
Check the Bureau of Meteorology for weather forecasts and warnings, including High Fire Danger days
Contact the Mansfield Parks office about local conditions, tracks, river and stream levels and possible fire danger
Never travel alone in remote areas. For safety, a group of three is considered a minimum
Plan ahead - choose your walks and activities to match your abilities, stamina and fitness
Pack more than enough food, water, torch, sunglasses, sunscreen and a good first aid kit
A Trip Intentions Form could save your life. Tell a friend where you are going, give them a map of the park, marking which areas you plan to visit, your vehicle registration number and when you plan to return. For more information go to Let someone know before you go.
Wear your new boots in before you leave home! Blisters are not only painful but your slow pace may risk your group reaching their destination after dark
Always bring a detailed topographic map of the areas you visit and a compass and know how to use them both.
Mobile phone coverage is often limited in remote areas. In case of emergency you may wish to bring a satellite phone, or hire a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
Park roads and tracks are often rough and built in steep terrain. Drive carefully at all times and beware of wildlife crossing the road.
Never swim alone - if you get into difficulties you could drown. Ensure you supervise your children near water at all times.
Between September - April, wear a hat, long sleeves, sunglasses, apply sunscreen every 2 hours and seek the shade of your beach shelter regularly.
Beware of blue-green algae, especially in mid-late summer. Avoid swimming in affected lakes as the algae is poisonous
In an emergency, dial Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services.
Check the Australian Alps Weather before you leave home
Dramatic weather changes are common in alpine areas. It’s best to pack clothing for all conditions. Ensure you pack a space blanket in case of emergency
Cold, wet and windy conditions are a dangerous combination in alpine areas. Be aware of the causes, symptoms and treatment of hypothermia
Be self-sufficient with drinking water. Carry it in or know how to make untreated water safe for drinking. See Drinking Water- How to make it Safe
Skills in using a map and compass are essential in alpine areas.
In an emergency, dial Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services.
If your boat capsizes, make sure you can stay afloat. Life jackets (PFD’s) are compulsory
Pack a hat, water, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen to avoid sunburn and dehydration
Conduct a full safety check of your boat/watercraft before you leave
If you plan to kayak, check river levels before you leave and when you arrive
Pack appropriate safety equipment including, map, compass, first aid kit, bilge pump and distress flares in case of emergency
Completing a Trip Intentions Form could save your life. If you are planning an extended trip, or going paddling in remote areas, provide your family/friends with a map of where you are going, your vehicle registration and when you plan to return. For more information go to Let someone know before you go
You can hire an Emergency Beacon (EPIRB) in case of emergency. For information on emergency distress beacons visit AMSA Beacons.
In an emergency, dial Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services.
Vic Emergency App
If you haven’t already, be sure to download the Vic Emergency app to your phone – available from Apple Store and Google Play. Set the watch zone for the area you are in (if you have phone reception).
