The NSW Police Force is reminding outdoor enthusiasts to be prepared before heading into the bush after a series of recent rescues involving injured or lost hikers and canyoners over summer.
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So far this year, police have rescued 22 hikers across the state after they became lost or injured in bushland and national parks.
Blue Mountains Police Rescue Team Leader, Sergeant Dallas Atkinson, said summer has been a busy period for police as more people head outdoors for recreation, including bushwalking and canyoning.
"National parks and bushland are natural, unpredictable environments, and the reality is that often people will get lost despite their best efforts," Sgt Atkinson said.
"We don't want outdoor adventures to end in tragedy, so we're encouraging people to be prepared and 'Think Before You Trek'.
"It takes only a few simple steps to ensure you are prepared for the bush, and it can make the difference between life and death," Sgt Atkinson said.
The Think Before You Trek bush safety campaign encourages people heading into the bush and national parks to be prepared, with these simple steps:
- Take enough water, food and first aid supplies
- Register your trip on the National Parks and Wildlife Service website (trip intention form)
- Keep to a planned route
- Install the Emergency Plus application and take a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), or satellite communication device, to use as a last resort
'Think Before You TREK' is a bush safety initiative between the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and NSW Police. For more information on how to be prepared, please visit: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/bushwalking-safety/think-before-you-trek
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