Aussies urged to bring 'crucial' life-saving device on hikes: 'Peace of mind'
Strapping up your hiking boots and exploring the bush is a great way to disconnect, but authorities are urging Aussies to do a few quick things before they go off-grid to help strengthen their chance of getting help if something goes wrong.
This week, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) reminded Aussies of the two crucial steps they need to take long before stepping out of their front door for a hike — take a personal locator beam (PLB) and fill out a trip intention form.
And, while time in the great outdoors is often sought in a bid to avoid the mundane tasks modern-life throws us, these two steps could be the difference between life and death, according to authorities.
"In NSW we are lucky to be surrounded by incredible national parks, but these landscapes can be unforgiving and it's very easy to get lost, whether you are new to hiking or a seasoned veteran," Naomi Stephens, NPWS Acting Deputy Secretary, said.
"It is crucial for hikers to inform someone about their plans, carry a personal locator beacon, and ensure they are well-equipped with the necessary supplies."
Wildlife photographer Greg Tannos often treks in remote areas of the country in search of native animals and, despite his decades of experience, he always carries a PLB — even when he's with friends.
"I always carry safety equipment all the time on my walks. I've got a PLB... it gives me peace of mind," he told Yahoo News.
He recalled the moment one of his mates fell down a steep, rocky trail near Mermaid Pool in Pheasants Nest, NSW, late last year — with the man tumbling down the sharp rocks and hitting his head and hip. Greg didn't use the PLB at his friend's request, but admitted he was relieved he had it on him "just in case" the situation escalated.
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Michael Atkinson, better known as Outback Mike, also swears by carrying a PLB and told Yahoo News previously that "there's a long list of things you can do to help yourself but just put an PLB in your bag".
PLBs can be activated at any time by a hiker and it transmits a distress signal via a satellite, allowing emergency services to identify your location and provide assistance within hours — even where there is no mobile reception.
In NSW, hikers can hire the life-saving devices for free from a range of 12 national park visitor centres and they are available for purchase nationwide.
Hikers are encouraged to complete trip intention forms and share them with a friend not going on the trip, meaning if the alarm is raised after someone doesn't come back from their hike, rescuers have basic information to help with their search.
Detailing where you plan to go and what colour you are wearing can help rescuers decide the best course of action when seeking you out. Dressing in "bright, waterproof, windproof and light weight clothing" could make you easier to spot.
Outback Mike echoed this sentiment, saying bright clothing and equipment can have a "dual purpose".
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