Bushwalkers in the Blue Mountains National Park have been reminded to plan their trip in advance and pack adequate safety equipment.
NSW Police have joined forces with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to urge outdoor enthusiasts to plan ahead and follow the Services’ safety initiative, Think Before You TREK.
“Bushwalkers are urged to check for the alerts listing for track and park closures before departing,” NPWS said.
“June 2020 marked the busiest month on record for the Blue Mountains National Park with three times more visitors compared to June 2019,” it said.
“In the last two months, the Blue Mountains Police Rescue have responded to 37 calls for assistance in the national park.”
They said the Trek to think about was:
T – Take adequate supplies of food, water, navigation and first aid equipment’
R – Register a planned route and tell friends and family when you expect to return;
E – Emergency beacon (personal locator beacon) are available free of charge from NSW Police and National Parks and Wildlife Services; and
K – Keep to your planned route and follow the map and walking trails.
Minister for the Environment, Matt Kean reminded Park visitors to obey all signs and refrain from entering closed areas.
“We’ve seen cases where bushwalkers, climbers, canyoners and runners have not made adequate preparations and have inadvertently put themselves at risk,” Mr Kean said.
He said people should check the NPWS website for closures and alerts before leaving home.
Further information on the Think Before You TREK safety initiative can be accessed on NPWS website at this PS News link.
