Jackaroo #1 - Going Bush #11

Going Bush .... No. 11

...... with Jack Guru.

This series of articles is intended to help you get the most out of your vehicle. During the course of these articles we will be covering many topics including basic off-road driving techniques, trip planning and preparation, vehicle packing, emergency repairs, camp etiquette, and a whole lot more. One of the most important things that will help you get the most out of your vehicle and for you to get maximum enjoyment out of your trip is to know both your own, and your vehicle’s limitations. This can be best achieved by both personal experience and by completing an off- road driver training course. Membership of a Four-Wheel Drive Club is the ideal environment for both these. Most clubs conduct, or have access to driver training programs and participation in their monthly trip program provides the opportunity to gain valuable off-road driving experience in a friendly and helpful environment.

Articles in this series are not intended as a substitute for formal driver training but more as a "refresher" and/or to encourage the less experienced off-road driver to gain that confidence that will allow them to get maximum enjoyment out of their vehicle.

Driving and vehicle safety in bushfire situations..

If you are planning a trip during the Bush Fire Danger Season, it is important to check to see what the weather conditions are likely to be in the area. Listen to local radio stations for news or updates of any fires in the area. Whenever you are travelling in bushfire affected areas you should be aware of the potential dangers associated with vehicles and bushfires and the limited protection that vehicles can afford people trapped by fires.

Do not go sightseeing in areas where there are bushfires.
If you are caught in your car during a bushfire, your vehicle can provide some amount of protection.
If you are caught by a bushfire you should immediately STOP:
Look for a clear area, preferably off the road. Areas clear of grass or bush will not sustain high intensity fires . These areas will be the safest.
Do not park or drive under trees as falling trees and branches are a real hazard after intense fires.
Put your headlights and/or fog lights on so that your vehicle is as visible as possible to other vehicles, especially vehicles engaged in fire fighting operations.
Never attempt to drive through smoke or flame. Many accidents occur when drivers attempt this, only to find that they run off the road, strike stationary obstacles, such as trees or other cars, or are involved in accidents with other vehicles driving through from the opposite direction.
Do not leave the vehicle. Many people have lost their lives by leaving their vehicle only to be trapped on foot by the fire. Radiant heat is the main danger in a bushfire and remaining in your vehicle will help to protect you.
Close all windows.
Close all vents or turn the vent fan to recycle.
Switch the ignition off. It is highly unlikely that a vehicle's fuel tank will explode from the heat of a passing bush or grass fire.
Everyone must get down on the floor, below window height, and cover all exposed skin with a wool or cotton blanket. Do not use synthetics as they can give off toxic vapours or melt.
Stay in the vehicle until the fire front has passed. Generally this will take between 30 seconds and one minute, although it may seem much longer at the time.
During this time it will be very hot, very noisy and very frightening.
If you have water - drink it!
Once the fire front has passed, get out of the vehicle and inspect it for any damage before proceeding.
Do not proceed until you are satisfied that the fire has passed and that you are unlikely to be trapped a second time.
Leave the area as quickly as possible. REMEMBER fire brigade vehicles will be trying to enter the area and your presence may hinder firefighting operations.