Travel ~ Queensland The Sunshine State

1. Sunburn

Always protect your skin against sunburn - depending on your skin type, you can start to burn within minutes.

a) Apply SPF factor 30+ sunscreen all over your body (including your feet)
b) wear a sun protective hat
c) hire a Sunsuit to wear when snorkelling out on the Reef

2. Dehydration

You can dehydrate very quickly in the tropics - high humidity, high daytime temperatures and just normal activity. Always carry water with you, no matter your activity.

Try to avoid soft drinks and alcohol as they promote dehydration.

BEWARE!

There are several "nasties" to be wary of, in this environment.

• Crocodiles: Salt-water and freshwater crocodiles inhabit the estuarine waters. Swim ONLY in designated areas.
• Stingers: these cousins to the jellyfish are not so prevalent in winter, however, their bite is fatal. Swim ONLY in designated areas and at designated time of year. Stingers are not out on the Reef.
• Swim safely Between the Flags
• You should familiarise yourself with this environment.
  For further details, CHECK the Qld Surf Lifesaving Website
  

Bites

Many insects bite in the tropics. Mosquitoes carry various diseases, the most common being dengue fever and Ross river virus. Always apply repellent (day and night, particularly sunrise and sunset) and burn mosquito or citronella candles near accommodation or outdoor gatherings.
Should you feel ill or not well seek medical advice immediately.

Wounds & Cuts

Wounds and cuts can become infected very quickly in a tropical climate.

1. Use strong antiseptic lotion immediately, available at local Chemist shops.

2. Always wear footwear

3. If the wound does not show immediate improvement seek medical attention. Cuts received on rocks and coral should be referred to a doctor for examination and treatment. These cuts will infect very quickly and can result in serious illness.

Snake Bite

There are many species of snake in the tropics and although some are not venomous, there are many potentially deadly snakes in the tropics.

Always wear covered footwear and longpants when walking in grassed areas, scrub and rain forests. Make plenty of noise to warn snakes of your presence (most will avoid human contact).

If bitten it is best to presume all snakes are venomous and administer the appropriate first aid.

1. Wrap the wound tightly
2. Keep as calm as possible
3. Seek urgent medical attention - emergency number is 000.

Anti venom is available at most local hospitals and emergency