Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bushfires
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In hot, dry and windy weather, be extremely careful with any naked flame (including ci-
garette butts) and make sure your fire's out before you decamp.
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On Total Fire Ban days it's forbidden even to use a camping stove in the open - penal-
ties are harsh.
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Campfires are banned in conservation areas during the Fire Danger Period (FDP),
which is usually from 1 November to 31 March (30 April in some places).
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Postpone your bushwalk if a Total Fire Ban is in place.
Crime
Central Australia is a relatively safe place to visit but you should still take reasonable pre-
cautions:
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Lock hotel rooms and cars, and don't leave your valuables unattended or visible through
car windows.
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Avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night, especially in Darwin, Alice Springs and Kath-
erine.
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Refuse drinks offered by strangers in bars, and drink bottled alcohol rather than from a
glass.
On the Road
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Road distances are HUGE out here: take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
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Avoid outback driving at night: animals straying onto the road are a serious hazard, par-
ticularly kangaroos but also livestock and camels.
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Do some careful planning and preparation before you go: driving on dirt roads can be
tricky if you're not used to them, and travellers regularly encounter difficulties in the harsh
outback conditions.
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Always carry plenty of water and tell someone where you're going.
Swimming
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Popular beaches are patrolled by surf lifesavers; safe areas are marked by red-and-yel-
low flags.
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Undertows (or 'rips') at surf beaches are a problem. If you find yourself being carried out
by a rip, don't panic or swim against the current - swim parallel to the shore to escape the
