Safety essentials during the holiday season

There are 14,000 melanoma cases each year, so it’s vital to stay sun safe. Remember to use a water-resistant sunscreen that is SPF30+ and above. Reapply sunscreen after swimming and seek shade between 10am to 3pm. Also ensure that you stay hydrated throughout the day.

Always swim in patrolled beaches. For swimmers, stay between the red and yellow flags. For surfers, stay between the black and white checkered flags.

If you are caught in a rip, swim parallel to the beach and out of the rip, making your way back to shore.

If you encounter Box Jellyfish or Bluebottles, remove their tentacles with tweezers. If you are stung by a Box Jellyfish, administer vinegar and call 000. If you are stung by a Bluebottle, administer hot water or ice.

Before you commence your hike, tell someone where you are going. It’s also important to:

• Wear waterproof overgear and warm clothing.
• Ensure you have matches stored in a water-tight container.
• Pack enough food for your trip.
• Have a personal location beacon (PLB), mobile phone and a power pack.
• Carry a whistle, compass and map.
• Pack a first aid kit, space blanket, water-purifying tablets and sun protection.
• Pack at least 4 litres of water.
• Pack a torch/head torch.
• Carry extra batteries.

If you’re lost or in an emergency:

• Stay where you are as a group and make sure your location is visible.
• Stay relaxed and conserve your energy.
• Find shelter from adverse weather.
• Deploy your personal location beacon (PLB).
• Call AU 000 NZ 111 for help.

When travelling:

• Remember to always drive on the left side of the road.
• Always carry a valid license.
• Ensure every passenger is wearing their seatbelt.
• Do not speed or use a mobile phone while driving.

Road safety key items before travel:

• Make sure your car is serviced and has had its pre-vehicle check.
• Choose the safest route, not the quickest.
• Plan ahead so you're familiar with the route.
• Do not drive stressed and slow down.
• Maintain a safe distance between other vehicles.

For all emergencies in Australia, call 000.

For all emergencies in New Zealand, call 111.

While overseas:

Consular Emergency Services Australia +61 2 6261 3305

Consular Emergency Services New Zealand +64 99 20 20 20

Assure Employee Assistance Programme:

Australia 1800 808 374

New Zealand 0800 464 387

Safety at home with gases is just as critical as when you are in the office. You can contact us on 1300 607 577 for assistance with on-site emergencies with products, spills or transportation emergencies.

Click here for important safety considerations if you work with or are around gases of any kind.