OUTBACK SURVIVAL with BOB COOPER
KEEPING KIDS SAFE IN THE BUSH Pre-primary and primary school children should have a few ‘survival items’ in their day packs for every venture – particularly in large bush areas where the inquisitiveness and wonder of your child’s mind should be encouraged, with their safety being paramount at all times.
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ou can start by dressing them in brightly coloured clothes, especially their hat; it should be a see-easy fluoro colour. Another good idea is to attach little bells onto a toddler's clothing so parents can tell where the little one is at all times. Children’s day pack items include: • Tissues • Lollies • Whistle • LED Torch • Favourite toy • Bright coloured raincoat
• Hang their tissues as high as possible in a circle around the tree as a signal. • If they blow their whistle three times every few minutes it will help them to be found. • Use their colouring book or some other mind-occupying game while at the friendly tree. • Definitely no fire lighting – this is dangerous. • Have a small LED torch and teach them how to use it. • Emergency lollies are a must and fruit juice to complement their water supply. • Demonstrate the correct use of the rain poncho for warmth/shelter and how to use it as a signalling device. • Spare emergency lightweight jacket for extra protection in colder weather. • Play an 'I am lost' game as rehearsal prior to excursions or camping.
• Water and spare juice drink • Colouring-in book and pencils If lost, these young ones should be encouraged to make friends with a tree, a 'Friendly Tree' and stay there. Show them a large tree in an open area as an example, and make it a protective area, not a scary one. Usually, anything taller is a threat in young minds so reinforce the safety of this 'friendly tree'. Hints: • Explain that they should never lose sight of their new 'friend'. Use its shade when hot or for cover from wind or rain. Western 4W Driver #123 |
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