As temperatures soar across the Territory, visitors to NT parks are being urged to take precautions to prevent heat-related illness and fatalities.

A special Beat the Heat pop-up display will be held at the Visitor Information Centre in Alice Springs today to help educate visitors on how to be prepared for bushwalks in the Territory.

Senior Director Parks and Wildlife Operations, Chris Day, said heat stroke was a real threat during extreme temperatures and should not be taken lightly.

“We’ve already seen a few examples this year of people underestimating the impacts of high temperatures and how quickly heat-related illness can take effect, ending up severely dehydrated on their bushwalks,” said Mr Day.

“Even if you are an experienced walker, you must take precautions when visiting Territory parks. Walking in hot weather can result in heat exhaustion, which may progress to a potentially fatal heatstroke. 

“The best way to avoid heat-related illness on your walk is to be prepared before you go. Follow our Beat the Heat tips to ensure you stay cool, stay hydrated and stay alive.”

CEO of Tourism Central Australia, Stephen Schwer, supported the safety message.

“With temperatures in excess of 42C in warmer months in Central Australia, it is crucial to remind all visitors and locals to be prepared when planning their walking and outdoor trips,” said Mr Schwer.

“We’ll be encouraging accommodation providers, tour and transport operators and tourism attractions to help us spread the Beat the Heat message and ensure all visitors to the Territory have the right information to stay safe.”

As part of the Beat the Heat campaign, fact sheets, posters, flyers and a safety video will be distributed to Visitor Information Centres, hotels and tour companies.

Tips on how to Beat the Heat on Territory parks include:

• Do not attempt long walks in hot weather and consider postponing if it is over 32C.
• Drink water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. You should drink 1L of water per 1 hour walk.
• Apply sunscreen regularly and wear protective clothing like a long sleeve shirt and hat.
• Eat to keep your energy levels up and ensure you have fruit or energy bars with you.
• Walk early in the day before 9am.
• Plan your route, tell someone where you are going, take a physical map with you or use GPS navigating apps as a back-up to ensure you stay on the marked paths.
• Carry emergency communication like a satellite phone or Personal Locator Beacon.

For more information go to www.nt.gov.au/beattheheat 

Media Contact: Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture Media Manager 0476 844 832