Travelling around Australia’s West Pilbara Coast can take you to some remote areas. Here is some important emergency information you should take with you to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Emergency contact numbers and information
Fire and Emergency Services
Website: www.fesa.wa.gov.au
Phone: 132 500
Local State Emergency Services
Karratha/Dampier (Local Manager, Trevor Patton) Phone: +61 8 9144 1848
Roebourne District Unit (Co-ordinator, Gary Tower) Phone: +61 89187 1800
Police Controllers
Karratha Police Sergeant +61 8 9143 7200
Roebourne Police Sergeant +61 8 9182 1133
Wickham Police Sergeant +61 8 9187 1444
Cyclones
Cyclones are severe tropical low-pressure systems. Cyclone season is between the months of November to April. These storms can bring with them extremely high winds and heavy rain.
If you are travelling within this region during cyclone season you must be aware of the following:
- If you are staying at a caravan park check to see if they have suitable ‘tie-downs’ to anchor your caravan securely throughout the cyclone.
- What equipment (if any) the caravan park may be able to supply (e.g. rope, ratchet devices, etc).
- Always carry a battery-powered portable radio to monitor warnings.
- Follow instructions issued from Police, State Emergency Service Personnel, and Main Roads, the park operator/motel staff or other authorised persons until the situation is declared safe.
Warning system (stages of the approaching cyclone)
Blue Alert – A cyclone has formed and may affect the area within 48 hours.
Yellow Alert – The cyclone is moving closer to the area and you should take action.
Red Alert – A cyclone is imminent. You should seek shelter.
Driving through remote areas
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Do not take two wheel drive vehicles on tracks signposted or mapped for four wheel drives only.
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Most four wheel drive tracks are not suitable for caravans and trailers due to sand hills etc. Check with the local visitor centre before leaving town.
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Fuel (especially unleaded/lead replacement and LPG) is not always available in some remote areas. Check with the visitor centres before departure. Allow for a safe reserve supply when planning your trip.
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Obtain a current and accurate map of the area you intend to travel and know how to read it.
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Allow approximately nine litres of water per adult per day. Take enough extra to last two to three days past your intended travel time.
Have your vehicle thoroughly checked before leaving and ensure that you have:
- Sufficient fuel
- Oil
- Water
- Emergency equipment
- First aid kit and fire extinguisher
- Consider obtaining an Electronic Position Indicator Radio Beacon (EPIRB)
This information was sourced from RoadWise. Phone: +61 8 9184 6738 Facsimile: +61 8 9321 8378
Some information presented in this website has been sourced, with permission, from the Shire of Roebourne website.
