Bite and Fright
When walking in the bush and rainforest be sure to wear boots, thick long socks and long trousers and be careful about putting your hand into holes. Ticks and leeches are common so check your body thoroughly after bushwalking. Ticks can be dangerous if not removed. They can be removed with kerosene or methylated spirits (donšt break the head off inside your body) and leeches can be removed with salt or heat.

The chances of being attacked, stung or bitten by venomous wildlife are extremely remote but, if a poisonous snake or spider should bite, try to stay calm, wrap the area in a tight bandage, as you would with a sprained ankle (DONšT use a tourniquet or suck out the poison), attach a splint to the limb, keep very still and send for medical help.

A similar procedure applies to poisonous marine life. Sea wasps are a deadly type of jellyfish which sting with their tentacles, causing telltale welt marks. Douse the wound with vinegar and donšt remove the stingers. Do not swim in unprotected waters.

Areas of danger - particularly those involving sharks, crocodiles and stingers - have clearly marked signs. Even if your English is less-than-perfect the signs have clear illustrations of the potential dangers of an area.