Dont get caught out if you become lost or stranded

[PradoRoo Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close PradoRoo]

Hi All,

Given that this time of year is idea for those epic journeys i thought it might be a timely remind of some simple tips in case you find yourself in that embarrassing situation of becoming lost or even suffer a serious breakdown miles from anywhere.
I am, what some would call a "veteran" of Land Search and Rescue and have seen the results first hand of people not following some rather simple and basic steps, so thought i would just put out a simple reminder.

Always travel prepared to look after yourself should you find yourself stranded. Don’t ever think it wont happen to me. Because the unexpected can happen especially if you venture into the unknown.

1. Carry sufficient fuel and water
2. Carry sufficient spares to effect minor repairs.
3. Always advise someone, reliable friend or relative of where you are going, what time you plan to leave and return and importantly the route you plan to take. Then don’t forget to make a quick call to advise them of your safe arrival, as if you are overdue this may well prompt a Search and Rescue response.
4. Consider taking a satellite phone to call for help yourself should something go wrong. Also consider equipping yourself with an PLB (Personal Locating Beacon) should you find yourself in an immediate life threatening situation. This device can pinpoint your locate to within about 5km’s. If you consider buying an PLB visit www.beacons.amsa.gov.au/index.html for some good information on these.

Breaking Down and Getting Lost

1. Most importantly don’t Panic – this leads to irrational thinking and only gets you into further trouble.
2. ALWAYS stay with your vehicle – Invariably in any land search the vehicle is found well before the occupants. Walking also consumes energy and thats energy you might just need later. You will also lose moisture from your body hastening the onset of dehydration. If you find it necessary to stray from the vehicle the least you can do is to leave a note should rescuers find the vehicle.
3. If you can move your vehicle to an open spot so its visible to a possible Search Aircraft and even perhaps open the bonnet making it obvious that your in trouble in case someone sees you without you noticing.
4. If you have prepared correctly and advised someone of your plans etc, eventually you will be missed and rescuers will come. At the end of the day it is vitally important to Preserve your energy, preserve your water and wait….DONT stray off

Its not rocket science, but I have seen so many times people NOT following this which has had serious and sometimes fatal results, not to mention the fact that the actual search operations become protracted.
A good reference guide is “Aids to Survival” this is a publication produced by the WA Police Academy.

Most importantly enjoy this vast country of ours, stay safe and happy travels.

[Wazza2 Member Find all posts View Profile Close Wazza2]

Welcome PradoRoo. Good advice in your post.

We're contemplating one of those "epic journeys" you speak of for this time next year. Hopefully we wont need to execute any such recovery mission. You just never know what might happen though and heading off prepared is the go.

A Sat phone is looking like a mandatory inclusion for us.

[Bushbasher Out of control poster! Find all posts View Profile Close Bushbasher]

I too have been involved in many outback rescues of the un-prepared. Only the other week I was camped at Docker River and got into conversation with 3 carloads of travellers from Newcastle. They asked me about cutting through from Docker to Karijini via Sandy Blight Track, to Rudall River and along the Telfer Road towards the west coast. I was a little surprised that they had not done any pre-trip planning on this route, they had talked about it but done no research. They had basic 4wds, mostly a couple of Tritons and a Navara with roof toppers. Now, these vehicles could get through provided it doesn't rain, but the fact they had not done their homework and were going to rely on my local information was concerning. They hadn't even bothered to apply for the requisite permits.

[Matty80 Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close Matty80]

Seems to show why you are involved in so many recoveries mate... the ill prepared are more often that not the normal by the sounds of it!