With summer approaching, Canberrans are encouraged to plan ahead, prepare for summer conditions and check current information before visiting ACT parks and reserves.
Summer is a popular time to enjoy walking, cycling, visiting waterways, camping and other outdoor activities. Visitors should prepare for high temperatures, fire danger, changing weather, challenging terrain, unreliable mobile reception and increased snake activity.
Before setting out, visitors should:
- check the weather conditions, Fire Danger Rating and current Parks ACT alerts
- choose walks or activities that match your abilities, fitness and stamina
- tell someone your route, when you are expected back and what to do if you’re late
- pack extra food, a hat and sunscreen, and avoid dehydration, especially in summer, by carrying sufficient water
- purchase a high-quality map, download offline maps for portable devices, and take note of any opening or closing times
- be prepared to postpone, shorten or change their plans if conditions deteriorate.
- be prepared for an emergency
- complete trailhead logbooks where available which can help rangers and emergency crews locate visitors who are lost or overdue.
Visitors undertaking longer or more remote bushwalks should carry a personal locator beacon, which can be hired from the Namadgi and Tidbinbilla visitor centres.
High temperatures, fire danger, strong winds and severe weather can result in warnings, cancelled activities, changed access arrangements or temporary closures at short notice.
Closures may apply to individual parks, reserves, roads or trails while nearby areas remain open. Organised events, volunteer and ParkCare activities may also be cancelled or changed, even if the surrounding area remains accessible.
Visitors must follow all closures, signs and directions from ACT Parks staff and should never enter a closed area.
When visiting rivers and waterways, never swim alone, supervise children closely, understand your abilities and local hazards, and wear a lifejacket where appropriate.
Check the Parks ACT alerts page for current closures and access information and the ESA website for Total Fire Ban declarations, warnings and emergency advice.
The end of a Total Fire Ban does not automatically mean that closed areas have reopened. Check current Parks ACT alerts and wait for confirmation before entering an affected area.
In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
Quotes attributable to Nick Daines, Senior Director, Fire Management of the ACT Parks and Conservation Service:
“Canberra’s parks and reserves offer wonderful opportunities to get outdoors over summer, but even a short visit requires planning.
“Check the conditions and current park alerts before leaving, know your route, carry enough water and tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
“Summer conditions can change quickly, so remain alert throughout your visit and be prepared to turn back, leave early or choose another activity.
“A little preparation, and a willingness to change your plans when needed, can help everyone safely enjoy Canberra’s parks and reserves this summer.”
Quotes attributable to Sergeant Neal Griffiths, ACT Policing:
“It is important to plan ahead and be prepared in case the weather worsens or you become injured. Pack water, snacks, first aid, and additional gear such as a rain jacket in case the weather turns. Tell someone where you’re going and when you’re expected to return.”
“If you find yourself in a situation where you are injured or believe yourself to be at risk or lost, call for help early. The longer you wait, the more risk you put yourself in, especially if there is bad weather or injuries.
“We encourage everyone to carry a personal locator beacon which can be used to call for help even if there is no mobile phone reception. If you do activate your beacon, stay where you are until help arrives.”
Quotes attributable to Steve Forbes, Chief Officer of the ACT State Emergency Service:
“The best search and rescue is the one that never has to happen. Know where you’re going, carry the essentials, and tell someone your plans.
If conditions change or something doesn’t feel right, turn back early. There’s always another day to enjoy the outdoors”.
