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Staying safe

Snorkelling with dolphins. Photo: Wondrous World Images
Snorkelling with dolphins. Photo: Wondrous World Images

We want you to have the time of your life on Christmas Island then return home safe and well.

Please take responsibility for your own safety during your visit and keep the following advice in mind:

  • It’s easy to become lost in the rainforest, so keep to marked walking tracks, roads and designated visitor areas at all times.
  • Walk with another person and tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
  • Consider hiring a personal locator beacon (PLB) from the Christmas Island Police Station. These can be activated in the event of an emergency to help search and rescue services find you.
  • Carry plenty of drinking water. Local tap water is safe to use.
  • Always follow directions from park rangers – their directions are for your safety.
  • Be aware of your own limitations.
  • Supervise children at all times.
  • When bushwalking, wear sturdy shoes, a hat, sunscreen and loose and light breathable clothing.
  • The sea cliffs and inland cliffs on Christmas Island can be steep and very treacherous. Keep away from cliff edges and do not venture onto rock platforms near the shoreline.
  • Use common sense when swimming or wading at any beach – they can be subject to large waves and swell, strong rips and undertows. None of the beaches on the island are patrolled by lifesavers. Swimming at beaches is only recommended at Flying Fish Cove under calm sea conditions.
  • Obey all safety directions, notices and warning signs.
  • Some roads in and out of the national park are 4WD only, and many sections are steep, narrow and become slippery when wet. Drive carefully and slowly.
  • Take extra care when driving during wet periods, during the red crab migration or when robber crabs are out on roads and tracks.
  • Although Christmas Island Hospital has modern and well-equipped facilities, all visitors should have appropriate travel insurance to cover unexpected health needs or an emergency evacuation.
  • Bring an appropriate supply of any medication you need.

Looking after the national park

  • Take your rubbish with you when you leave the park.
  • Do not feed any wildlife or leave food scraps behind.