Safety in State Forests

• The vast majority of forest roads are gravel. Vehicles react very differently on gravel compared to on bitumen. Road conditions change with the weather, from dusty in the dry to muddy and slippery in the wet. Please drive with care.
  
  
• Most forest roads do not have speed limit signs. Drive to the conditions but expect to travel no more than 70 kph.
  
  
• Expect to meet other vehicles, including large trucks carrying gravel and other machinery and of course log trucks. These vehicles can take up a little more road than the average vehicle, so stay alert.
  
  
• If visiting more remote areas of State forest, then it's always advisable to carry a first-aid kit with you. People with allergies or allergic reactions to bites should always carry their anti-histamines or other medications.
  
  
• In the bush be aware of what is around you. Keep a wary eye out for snakes in summer months. Leeches, fern ticks, bull-ants and wasps can all cause discomfort to some people. So watch where you are standing or sitting and check for those crawly critters every once in a while.
  
  
• Windy conditions increase the hazard of falling limbs and trees. This is a natural process in forests and we recommend that you avoid walking in mature forests on windy days.
  
  
• If you come across a forest operation, obey all signs and comply with instructions.
  
  
• Take care not to accidentally start a fire, from cigarettes, matches or an unattended campfire. Be aware of days that are total fire bans and be extra careful with any potential ignition source on those days, in the bush.
  
  
• If you see a bushfire starting ring 000 asap. Quick response fire crews may save lives, property and loss of forest flora and fauna.
  

Disclaimer:
Visitors to State forest should be aware that natural hazards occur within Tasmania’s forest environments.
Forestry Tasmania does not accept liability for any injury or damage resulting from such hazards.

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