Tasmania Police and Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service are coming together to urge people planning on bushwalking this summer, particularly in mountainous areas, to prepare and be safe.

“With summer approaching it’s timely to remind anyone planning on bushwalking or entering Tasmania’s alpine areas to plan and be prepared,” said Senior Constable Callum Herbert from Tasmania Police Search and Rescue.

“With the weather getting warmer it’s important people planning on bushwalking are aware that conditions can change quickly and it’s imperative to be suitably prepared.”

“When walking in elevated and alpine areas the temperature can change quickly – the day may be warm and fine when commencing a walk but change rapidly as weather patterns move through and light reduces.”

“It’s a priority to carry equipment to keep you safe and enable contact with emergency services if you require assistance.”

“Carrying suitable equipment, including clothing for all conditions, communication devices, food, torches and maps, is imperative to keep you safe.”

“Before you commence your trip, research the conditions and always let someone know of your intended journey and anticipated return.”

“Police and rescue agencies will always respond to requests for assistance, but it’s important to remember that if you require assistance, help can be hours away. In bad weather, rescue helicopters are often not able to fly due to conditions and ground crews take time. Carrying suitable equipment will ensure you can remain safe until help arrives if required.”

Supporting the message from Tasmania Police, Ben Clark from Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service urged walkers to check the PWS website for walk registration requirements and tips on how to best prepare for their outdoor adventure.

“Tasmania is renowned for its rugged wilderness, and we want people to enjoy the experience of bushwalking, but we want them to do it safely.”

“A number of Tasmania’s multi-day walks have registration in place, which allows us to manage daily departure numbers and reduce the potential for long-term damage to fragile and pristine environments.”

“Walker numbers are matched to the capacity of campsites, while also considering walker enjoyment and the impacts on the trails, including sensitive vegetation.”

“Ahead of the peak walking season, a team of skilled and experienced PWS Wilderness Rangers will also be deployed to some of these remote track locations to provide expert advice, including safety information to walkers.”

Bushwalker safety advice:

• Ensure you’re prepared with appropriate equipment – take a map and torch, clothing and footwear to suit any conditions, regardless of the season take a waterproof jacket; adequate food and water, first aid kit.
• Research your intended trip – ensure the trip is within your abilities and fitness level, and you have a route plan, map and check the expected weather forecast.
• Let someone know before you go – ensure someone knows your route and expected return time.
• Always carry a fully charged mobile phone and consider a portable charger to extend battery life. Batteries do not last as long when cold and mobile navigation apps deplete batteries quicker than other apps.
• Carry a Personal Locator Beacon but be aware that they are a one-way communication device.
• Be flexible. Be prepared to turn back or change plans if severe weather is forecast or eventuates during the walk. Making the decision to push on when you should turn back can put you in danger.