Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
lifesavers, and at the time of writing, the WA government had also launched a $20-million program to track, identify and
mitigate (ie kill) sharks that are considered to pose an imminent threat. A shark cull was also being discussed, a contro-
versial proposal given that great white sharks are a protected species. See boxed text on Click here for guidelines on
how best to avoid a shark attack.
SNAKES
There are many venomous snakes in the Australian bush, the most common being the brown and tiger snakes. Unless
you're interfering with one, or accidentally stand on it, it's extremely unlikely you'll be bitten.
Australian snakes have a reputation that is justified in terms of the potency of their venom, but unjustified in terms of
the actual risk to travellers and locals. They are endowed with only small fangs, making it easy to prevent bites to the
lower limbs (where 80% of bites occur) by wearing protective clothing (such as gaiters) around the ankles when bush-
walking.
The bite marks are small and preventing the spread of toxic venom can be achieved by applying pressure to the
wound and immobilising the area with a splint or sling before seeking medical attention. Application of an elastic band-
age (you can improvise with a T-shirt) wrapped firmly, but not so tightly circulation is cut off, around the entire limb -
along with immobilisation - is a life-saving first-aid measure.
SPIDERS
The redback is the most common poisonous spider in WA. It's small and black with a distinctive red stripe on its body.
Bites cause increasing pain at the site followed by profuse sweating and generalised symptoms. First aid includes applic-
ation of ice or cold packs to the bite and transfer to hospital. White-tailed (brown recluse) spider bites may cause an ul-
cer that is very difficult to heal. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical assistance.
Hospitals have antivenin on hand for all common snake and spider bites, but it helps to know what it was that bit you.
TAP WATER & OTHER WATER SOURCES
Tap water is universally safe to drink in WA. Increasing numbers of streams, rivers and lakes, however, are being
contaminated by bugs that cause diarrhoea, making water purification essential. The simplest way of purifying
water is to boil it thoroughly. Consider purchasing a water filter; it's very important when buying a filter to read
the specifications, so that you know exactly what it removes from the water and what it doesn't. Simple filtering
will not remove all dangerous organisms, so if you cannot boil water it should be treated chemically. Chlorine
tablets will kill many pathogens, but not some parasites like giardia and amoebic cysts. Iodine is more effective in
purifying water and is available in tablet form. Follow the directions carefully and remember that too much iodine
can be harmful.
Other Hazards
BUSHFIRES
Bushfires are a regular occurrence in WA and in hot, dry and windy weather, be extremely careful with any naked flame.
Even cigarette butts thrown out of car windows can start fires. On a total fire ban day it's forbidden even to use a camp-
ing stove in the open.
Bushwalkers should seek local advice before setting out. When a total fire ban is in place, delay your trip until the
weather improves. If you're out in the bush and you see smoke, even a long distance away, take heed - bushfires move
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