VISITORS to the state’s national parks are being urged to take care and carry plenty of water following two incidents of suspected dehydration at Kalbarri National Park.
A 27-year-old man died after completing the loop trail in the national park in October.
In the same month, a 62-year-old woman and her husband were attempting the loop trail but turned back after three kilometres, with the woman later collapsing between Nature's Window and the car park.
She was taken by ambulance to a nearby medical centre.
There are around 400,000 visits to Kalbarri National Park every year, and drinking water is not available.
Visitors are advised to carry their own supply of water and be prepared for unexpected changes in the weather.
Signs with information about heat stroke and dehydration management are dotted throughout the park, including at the car park information shelter.
State Environment Minister Stephen Dawson urged anyone visiting national parks in the summer months to be prepared for the conditions and be are aware of their own capabilities.
"These latest incidents in Kalbarri are a timely reminder to be prepared before undertaking a difficult walk trail or travelling to a national park in a remote area,” he said.
“Remember to bring adequate water, wear sun protection, always walk the trails with a companion and avoid walking in the middle of the day."
Hikers in Kalbarri National Park should carry 3-4 litres of water per person per day.
Some areas, such as gorges, may experience temperatures often up to 10 degrees higher on hot days, or much lower in the shade of the steep gorge walls. Heat stress symptoms include disorientation, nausea, dizziness and headache.
It is also recommended that people carry a personal locator beacon (PLB), Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB) or a satellite phone in case of emergency.
Kalbarri National Park, 485km north of Perth on the Coral Coast, is one of the state’s best known parks, with scenic gorges through red and white banded sandstone and soaring coastal cliffs.
The park covers 186,000 hectares.
Details – parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au
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