When you are camping or travelling it’s very important that you keep in touch with fellow campers or family & friends. For your safety it is best to keep in touch with someone that is not travelling with you so they know your approximate whereabouts and plans.
There are various ways and means as well as equipment that is available to cater to a camper’s every need to keeping in touch and safety devices.
The following are tips and advice to be able to keep safe and in contact whether it’s close or hundreds of kilometres away.
-
If you have younger kids with you, keep them in sight and set boundaries as to where they can or cannot go. If they have bright or distinctive clothing on like a shirt or cap they will be easier to see.
- When you are out walking, particularly on short hikes in bush, wear bright clothes, take notice of landmarks, keep to marked trails and have a map if possible. A whistle can be helpful if you are in several small groups and someone gets separated.
- If you go on a long day hike tell someone responsible where you are going and when you are returning. Take suitable a communication device
These are some of the most used communication and safety devices available
Walkie Talkies Useful for communicating short distances and usually retail for $40 to $100
UHF CB’s Are very good for communicating between vehicles when travelling, it is possible to communicate over 100km of distance if the terrain is fairly flat, hilly terrain will lessen the distance.
Mobile Phone Most of us have a mobile phone – please note they only get a signal in populated areas and there batteries can go flat quickly.
Satellite Phone Can be hired for short term rather than buying and is the only reliable method of dial in and dial out phone calls in Australia’s remote Outback. It’s as simple to use as a digital phone and offering clear reception
Global Positioning System GPS are portable and are reasonably priced. They are very useful when you need to find a location especially when you have not been to that area before. They also can locate your exact position if required and show you your speed and will estimate the time it will take to get to your location.
Laptop Computer Access to your laptop computer is by wireless broadband or satellite. Wireless is limited as it works the same as a mobile phone only in populated areas. Access by satellite will ensure of access at all times.
Personal GPS Emercency Location Beacon If you are travelling in the Outback or anywhere remote consider purchasing a Personal Emergency Beacon.
Read this story at this link as it may just save your life as told in this story. http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/article/2009/09/24/106931_news.html
Join my Camping & Travel Tips Newsletter and Get a Free Camping Ebook
