5 Health Emergencies to Plan for When Visiting Australia

Australia is known as a safe country; the healthcare system is good, the crime rates are low, the political system is stable,and the infrastructure is strong, and Melbourne, in particular,is very risk-free. However, accidents and illnesses can still happen, and that is why you should always be prepared. 

Serious accidents or emergencies 

Australia has a very widespread set of emergency services that are prepared for any health or safety assistance that you may need. Bush fires are not uncommon in Australia during the warmer months (November to April), so it is helpful to know these bushfire safety tips. 

In the case of a life-threatening emergency, you need to call 000 to be put in touch with an operator who will ask which service you need; police, fire, or ambulance. 

Try to remain calm if in this situation and put your faith in the services that Australia will provide you with – they will look after you and your family.

Bites and Stings

Australia is home to a wide variety of animal and insect species that may take it upon themselves to bite or sting you. Bees, spiders, snakes, and ticks are all present on Australian land as well as octopuses, jellyfish, and stonefish in the ocean. 

Be prepared for a sting or bite by ensuring that you always carry a first aid kit with you, whether you are planning a day on the beach or a hike in a National Park. 

Apply a firm bandage around the wound and instruct the person to remain as calm and still as possible until they have seen a medical professional. Call the emergency services on 000 if the person stung or bitten collapses or is struggling to breathe.

Beach-related injuries 

You may have chosen Australia as your vacation destination due to its sunny climate, but this country’s main draw can also be its biggest drawback. A mere 15 minutes in the sun can result in seriously burnt skin in this part of the world so make sure that you and your family are covered up with sun protective clothing and that you always wear a high factor sunscreen. You should also seek shade at the hottest times of the day. 

The ocean itself can also be dangerous with strong waves and undercurrents so be sure that you adhere to the flag system and alert a lifeguard if you encounter any difficulties or problems while swimming.  

Non-life-threatening illnesses or accidents 

Anyone with a family will know that kids are always getting into scraps and scrapes. Not to mention the seemingly never-ending list of illnesses and ailments that they seem to catch at the worst possible moment – like when on vacation. 

With Australia being known for its outdoor lifestyle and the multitude of sporting activities available, it is important to know where the local hospitals are. For example, The Royal Melbourne Hospital is one of the largest hospitals in Australia and takes both public and private patients. 

For any dental emergencies – because a child with toothache is a parent with a headache – this dentist in Bayswater is known for its family-friendly and high-quality service. 

Adverse weather conditions 

Natural weather hazards can occur in Victoria’s alpine regions as well as in some of the more remote national parks, so it is important to be safe if you are planning to visit any of these areas. You don’t want to be caught in a hailstorm or in gale force winds when you are isolated and far away from medical help. 

Always let someone who is not part of your group know where you are going and what time you expect to be back.