Visitors should be aware of and prepare for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. Read the safety preparation advice below to help you stay safe and get the most out of your park visit.

Be aware and prepare

• Research your trip. Check out short walks, trails and other information on the Park Notes attached to every park
• Choose your walks and activities to match your abilities, stamina and fitness
• Some parks may be closed due to major weather events. Check the latest conditions before you leave
• For weather forecasts and warnings, check the Bureau of Meteorology
• Be Sunsmart! Always pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and plenty of water. Bring protective clothing in case the weather changes
• You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of others in your care
• In an emergency, dial Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services

Metropolitan parks

It may seem surprising but more accidents occur in our metropolitan parks than in any other parks.

Before you go

• Be prepared to share the trail with others - Melbourne’s parks are extremely busy on weekends
• Be bike safe! Always wear a helmet when riding
• Ensure shared trails are enjoyed by all
• 1. Keep to the left
  2. Warn when you are approaching on a bike
  3. Move off the trail when you stop
  4. Control your dog
• Check where you can walk your dog safely off lead in our Dog Off Lead Parks 
• The park you are visiting may have Emergency Markers 
• In an emergency, dial Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services.

Day visit from Melbourne

Did you know that there are almost 30 parks within a day’s return trip from Melbourne?  

Before you go

• Check the  Bureau of Meteorology for weather forecasts and warnings, including Total Fire ban days. Be prepared to change your plans on days of Severe, Extreme or Code Red Fire Danger Ratings
• The days get shorter in Autumn and Winter. Allow plenty of time to finish your activity in daylight, and pack extra food and water in case you lose your way
• Pack clothing for all weather conditions
• In an emergency, dial Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services.

Water Safety - Coastal Parks and Inland Waters  

Swimming Safety

• Never swim alone - if you get into difficulties you could drown
• Swim only at lifesaving patrolled beaches
• Ensure you supervise your children near water at all times
• Pack a hat, water, beach shelter, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen to avoid sunburn and dehydration
• Beware of blue-green algae, especially in mid-late summer. Avoid swimming in affected lakes as the algae is poisonous
• In an emergency, dial Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services.

Boating Safety

• If your boat capsizes, make sure you can stay afloat. Life jackets (PFD’s) are compulsory
• Pack a hat, water, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen to avoid sunburn and dehydration
• Check tide charts and weather for yachting, sea kayaking, kite boarding and other water sports at Marine Weather Conditions
• Conduct a full safety check of your boat/watercraft before you leave
• If you plan to kayak, check river levels before you leave and when you arrive
• Pack appropriate safety equipment including, map, compass, first aid kit, bilge pump and distress flares in case of emergency
• Completing a Trip Intentions Form could save your life. If you are planning an extended trip, or going paddling in remote areas, provide your family/friends with a map of where you are going, your vehicle registration and when you plan to return. For more information go to Let someone know before you go
• You can hire an Emergency Beacon (EPIRB) in case of emergency. For information on emergency distress beacons visit AMSA Beacons.
• In an emergency, dial Triple Zero 000 to access police and emergency services.

Safety in Remote Parks

Remote parks have very few facilities or services, and the weather can quickly change. If you walk,  ski, kayak or camp in these areas, you must be fully prepared and completely self reliant. For more information on how to prepare for travelling in remote parks, see Safety in Remote Parks