Trail Safety

Stay safe on the trail with the following guidelines.

First Aid

Each team is advised to carry a first aid kit, including pressure bandages to treat injuries such as sprains, blisters, cuts and snake or spider bites. Team members are encouraged to learn basic first aid techniques.

Crossing Roads

The trail crosses numerous roads throughout the route. Care should always be taken when crossing roads. Follow the instructions of the traffic marshals and take care at each crossing.

Hydration

Dehydration is a lack of fluid in the body due to excess water loss (principally through sweating). Symptoms are only apparent when you are already dehydrated and can include tiredness, irritability, tight/heavy feeling muscles, headache, dry mouth and lips. To maintain the correct hydration level, drink electrolyte drinks instead of, or in addition to water. Electrolyte drinks contain salts and thereby assist in maintaining the correct salt balance in your body.
During the event itself, make sure you are urinating at regular intervals and that it is light yellow to clear. If you are not urinating or it is dark in colour, you may be dehydrated. Frequent, clear coloured urination can signify too high a fluid intake. If you are concerned during the event, check with the event medical staff.

Hypothermia

The temperature can drop dramatically in the Dandenong Ranges and a change in weather conditions can see the temperature plummet. If you are unable to warm yourself you may suffer hypothermia. Symptoms can include fatigue, shivering, muscle spasms, clammy skin, stammering and hallucinations. If you become hypothermic (1) change into dry clothes, (2) cover your head, face, neck and body with warm clothing, (3) consume hot drinks and high calorie food to maintain body temperature. Seek help by contacting the phone number printed on the rear of your event bib if you are suffering this condition. Watch the weather conditions and be prepared for poor weather - carry wet weather gear and warm clothing.

Heat Exhaustion

During hot weather the body’s internal temperature can rise resulting in heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include severe thirst, muscle weakness, nausea, fast shallow breathing, irritability and headache. Symptoms of heatstroke include severe headache, confusion, difficulties breathing, flushed hot dry skin and elevation of body temperature. If you or a team member is suffering these symptoms, find a shady area, administer frequent sips of water and seek help by contacting the phone number printed on the rear of your event bib. To prevent heat exhaustion on warm days, wear appropriate clothing, maintain adequate fluid intake and rest to avoid over exertion.

Wind

Eucalyptus trees found throughout the Dandenong Ranges are known for dropping their limbs - especially in high winds. Be extremely cautious during gusting or strong wind days as the chances of falling limbs is very real.

Snakes

Snakes and spiders are a part of the ecology of the Dandenong Ranges. If you encounter a snake consider yourself one of the lucky ones! Never attempt to capture or handle it- simply leave it alone and keep your distance. First Aid - know what to do in the case of a bite.

Spiders

You should also be wary of spiders along the trail. Gear placed on the ground should be checked for stowaways! First Aid - know what to do in the case of a bite.