I can't count how many times I've seen the media report on some dangerous animal in Australia. Whether it was a shark attack, marine stingers in the northern waters, crocodiles attacking an unfortunate tourist, or the highly publicised death of the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, who died from a Stingray barb in the heart.

One key point to remember is that incidents like the one where Steve Irwin died, are extremely rare. Without analysing statistics, I'd confidently say that you are more likely to die in a car accident while driving to your local supermarket, than die at the hands (or mouth) of some wild animal.

So don't be too scared by media reports. Most things we do in life have an element of danger, and when it comes to hiking ... well it's really no different. Preparing is the key.

However, the Australian bush has its own set of dangers, that if you're aware of, you can plan for and stay safe while you're exploring one of the world's most unique environments. If you're going to hike in a foreign land, then it certainly makes sense to be aware of the things you may encounter. It's really just common sense. By preparing correctly you have more time to enjoy what's going on around you and spend less time worrying about what might happen.

Here are some tips for staying safe. Read as much as possible from various sources to stay informed before you go on your trip. In other words, don't just take my word for it - educate yourself as well.

Prepare your trip well. This means having a well planned route and letting others know exactly what you're doing and when you're due back.

Communication. Take your mobile phone, but remember you will not get reception in remote areas. Australia is a big country and in many areas mobile phones are as useful as bringing a paper weight along with you. If you are planning a long and remote trip pack a well maintained EPIRB in your kit. In many parks you have to book ahead for camp sites, which at least lets rangers know where you are.

First Aid. Always pack an appropriate first-aid kit. One for each person. Know what's in it before you go.

Navigation. A good topographical map is essential. A poor quality map, which doesn't show contours will only lead to shocks when you are facing that steep accent. A GPS, backed up by a good compass will mean you always know where you are. Many Luddites and purists will stay clear of new technologies, but even when you are on well-marked tracks it's important to know where you are in case of emergencies. Know how to use a compass and be able to position yourself on a map. Never rely on a GPS. Thick forest canopy, bad weather and flat batteries can render it useless.

Equipment: personal. Appropriate shoes. In Australia's north I tend to use lightweight breathable shoes as its humid and hot. In other areas leather shoes are important to protect and keep your feet warm. Always bring appropriate clothing and wet weather gear. Even if you're out for the day it's nice to know you have a decent wet weather jacket. The backpack - essential that you have something to put everything in, that it's sturdy and you have the opportunity to make it waterproof (as much as possible). Without wanting to show favour I've always used Macpac or Fairydown(I hear they have been bought by Kathmandu) brands. They are just built so well.

Equipment: Sleeping. Good tents and sleeping bags, rated at the right temperatures. Make sure you have at least put your tent up once before, as there is nothing more frustrating as finding you are missing one piece. Sleeping mats make sleeping after a day's walk easy. I use the self inflating types such as those by Thermarest.

Food. Bring enough food, plan out your meals and make sure you are not too reliant upon re-hydrating your food to eat it. I was once caught out with lots of dehydrated food but very little access to water.

Water. Bring enough drinking water and in summer make sure you keep drinking. If you use mountain streams and creeks, remember you can't always know what's happening up stream, even at the next camp site. So boil the water for at least 5 minutes, treat it, or use a filter. How much water you need varies greatly with the temperature, you and the gear you have to carry on your back. Requirements vary from 4 - 9 litres per day.

Bush Fire. Take note of warnings. Summer, especially in South East Australia is bushfire season which means it's not a good time to hike. Fires in Australia can be deadly and fast moving. Take care when using a camp fire site (where they are allowed - generally you will always need to bring your own cooker - I use the methylated spirit types such as Trangia). Put fires out properly and never just cover with sand as the coals stay very hot - step on them and you will have serious burns.

Wildlife. Without going into details of each animal - don't interact with native wildlife. Take a picture, but stay clear. This applies to the cute and cuddlies such as kangaroos, possums and koalas and the not so cute - crocodiles (in Australia's north only) and snakes.

Dingoes, on Queensland's Fraser Island, have been culled in recent times as too many people have attempted to feed them. They become aggressive if not fed by the next person. So to keep them safe ... and alive, don't feed or coax them. If they come close to you, don't turn your back, walk backwards slowly and keep confident.

Wear good insect repellents. After being bitten by ticks and leeches in the past I've learnt some valuable lessons. They are critters to be avoided if possible. They can make you very sick. Wear hats and shirts and a good repellent. Same applies for mosquitoes - general rule - keep them off you.

Keep your tent zipped up and don't store food in open bags. Dingoes and goannas can smell, and are determined to eat when they can. Use an air-tight plastic container - no scent, no animal hunting for your food. Don't leave or bury rubbish. Use bins (it will be rare that a bin is provided) or take it with you.

Wear something on your feet at night and bring a good torch. Remember, spiders and some snakes are on the ground, and so are your feet. Head-torches are great hands free devices and can save a shock or two when walking around your tent in the darker hours.

Stay clean. But don't wash in streams using soaps, nor wash your pans and plates in streams. Protect the water quality by carrying water away from the stream to wash with.

Finally, protect yourself from the sun. I've seen a lot of first timers to Australia get surprised at how burnt they got in the sun. Wear a hat, shirt and sunscreen on any exposed parts and in summer avoid that midday sun - it's hot! There's any old saying which sounds like it came for the time of the British in India. "Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun."