URGENT UPDATE: As summer approaches, Australian 4WD drivers are being warned to carry two affordable items that could save them from costly rescues. In a recent incident at Guilderton Beach, just north of Perth, a driver found himself stranded in soft sand, leading to a rescue that could have been avoided.
Officials from Westcoast 4×4 Recovery report that having a tyre gauge and a shovel can make a significant difference in off-road adventures. Shaun Barrett, a recovery expert, emphasized to Yahoo News that these two inexpensive tools, costing only about $25, can prevent drivers from spending “hundreds of dollars” on recovery services.
Barrett stated, “Carrying a tyre gauge and a shovel is the bare minimum. You can get yourself out of a lot with these two simple, cheap items.” He explained that many drivers incorrectly assume that their 4WD vehicles can handle all terrains without proper preparation. “A lot of people fall victim to thinking, ‘Oh, let’s just go drive on the beach. We’ve got a 4WD, it’ll be easy,’ but there’s a bit more to it,” he said.
With the sand softening during the warmer months, Barrett recommends lowering tyre pressure to improve traction. A tyre gauge helps ensure the correct pressure, while a shovel can aid in digging out a stuck vehicle. “A shovel from Bunnings these days is like $20, and a tyre gauge starts from $5,” he noted. “$25 versus a recovery cost, you’ve still got a few days at the pub with the money saved.”
Beach bogging is a common issue across Australia. In recent weeks, two drivers in Queensland faced fines of $3,226 each for similar mishaps in the Bowling Green National Park. Another driver required a rather “smelly” rescue after getting bogged down in seaweed near Jurien Bay in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region.
Barrett urges new 4WD drivers to consider enrolling in training courses designed to equip them with essential skills before hitting the beaches. “It isn’t overly expensive these days; courses typically cost between $250 to $300, and they are usually conducted over a weekend,” he said, adding that participants can gain valuable experience and meet fellow enthusiasts.
As the summer season draws closer, drivers are reminded to prioritize safety and preparedness. Carrying a tyre gauge and a shovel could make all the difference between a smooth adventure and a costly rescue operation.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, and don’t forget to share this critical information with fellow drivers. Your next beach trip could depend on it!
