Health and safety

Check out these health and safety tips to ensure you have an enjoyable, trouble-free holiday on Australia’s West Pilbara Coast.

Healthy travelling

Unfortunately, some travellers have their holiday cut short due to illness or accident. If you take prescribed medication make sure you will have enough for the duration of your trip and bring a script renewal from your doctor. Always carry adequate supplies of water and a comprehensive first aid kit.

Mosquitoes can carry diseases such as encephalitis and Ross River fever. Use appropriate insect repellents and cover arms and legs with loose clothing, particularly at dawn and dusk.

Bushfire safety

The hot and dry conditions in parts of Australia’s West Pilbara Coast mean there is a risk of bushfires. The lighting of fires can be extremely dangerous, care should be taken at all times and a campfire should never be left unattended. Some areas of the West Pilbara Coast may have fire bans in place, which means you are not permitted to light fires, contact the local visitor centre for details. Please help us protect our natural environment and follow the fire warnings. Safety information is available from the Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia website.

Cyclone safety

Cylones can affect Australia's West Pilbara Coast coastal and inland communities during the summer months - generally from November to April. Tropical cyclone warnings are issued on local TV and radio stations whenever a tropical cyclone is expected. Karratha and Roebourne Visitor Centres have information packs for travellers and can advise of the emergency shelter locations.

Bush survival tips

Some of the breathtaking natural attractions on Australia’s West Pilbara Coast lie in remote and vast wilderness areas. Before heading off into the outback, remember to:

  • Let someone know your destination and schedule.
  • Carry extra water and food.
  • Carry a signal device, such as a flare or mirror.
  • Make sure you know how to use a four wheel drive.
  • Plan your route and take maps.
  • If your plans change, let someone know.
  • If possible, carry some form of communication equipment.

If you break down or get stuck

  • Try and park so you can be seen.
  • Always stay with your vehicle.
  • Conserve your food and water.

Crocodiles

There are two main species of crocodiles; the estuarine or saltwater crocodile (known as ‘salties’) and the Johnson freshwater crocodile (known as ‘freshies’). Salties are extremely territorial animals, they are considered to be the most dangerous and can grow up to seven metres in length. However, all crocodiles are potentially dangerous. Always observe warning signs and if in doubt, do not swim, canoe or use small boats in estuaries, tidal rivers and deep pools. Signs have been erected in areas where crocodiles have been sighted on Australia’s West Pilbara Coast.

Marine stingers

Box jelly fish and Irukandji are potentially lethal marine stingers found along the Kimberley and West Pilbara Coast of Australia. Although they can be present all year round, they are most prevalent from November until April. Take the right precautions, wear a full length stinger suit and if local authorities close the beach, please abide by their decision. If you are stung, douse liberally with vinegar and seek urgent medical advice.

Tides

The Kimberley and West Pilbara Coast has the largest tidal ranges in the Southern Hemisphere. Tidal water can move very quickly, and often catches people unawares. If you are undertaking any activity by the water, check the local tide charts, available at visitor centres and service stations

Sun protection

Travellers should always wear a wide brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses and at least an SPF 15+ sunscreen when outdoors. It is also recommended that you drink at least two litres of water each day.

Take extra care when outdoors between 10 am and 3 pm, when UV radiation is most intense. Seek shade to protect your skin from skin cancer and other sun damage.

Safety at the beach

Stonefish may be found when walking along stony or rocky isolated beaches and, at low tide, blue ringed octopus may be found in small rock pools. If you are stung seek immediate medical treatment.

Sharks are known to inhabit the waters along the entire Western Australian coast. Normal precautions should be taken when swimming at any beach.

  • Always swim under supervision, or with a friend.
  • Read and obey the signs.
  • Don't swim directly after a meal.
  • Don't swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Don't run and dive in the water.
  • Conditions change regularly; check before you enter the water.
  • If you get into trouble in the water, don't panic - signal for help, float and wait for assistance.
  • Float with a rip current or undertow, do not swim against it.

Some information presented in this website has been sourced, with permission, from the Shire of Roebourne website.