The number of people getting lost in remote parts of Australia due to an over-reliance on mapping apps is continuing to cause huge concern for authorities.
In Queensland’s far west, the State Emergency Service (SES) said its biggest worry continues to be people taking wrong directions and ending up in potentially dangerous situations … particularly with so much water about.
For example, back in February, two German tourists were lucky to survive after their vehicle became bogged when following Google Maps while attempting to travel from Cairns to Bamaga.
Across the country, it has become increasingly common to see signs made by local councils or even by local residents warning people not to follow Google Maps.
It is becoming increasingly common to see warning signs like this. PIC: Cizza
Birdsville Senior Constable Stephan Pursell told the ABC that it was all too common to find lost people who had taken a wrong turn.
And he said travellers taking the trouble to find out about local road conditions, rather than simply relying on an apps, was critical.
“We certainly have a few roads that are closed almost all year round due to flooding or damage, and Google Maps will still send people up those roads,” he said. “Give us a ring right here in Birdsville if you’re unsure of a road and we’ll be able to give you an update.”
SES area controller, John Wallace, told the ABC that people who got it wrong could quickly find themselves ‘in a world of pain’.
And he said it was a good idea for travellers to tell someone what time they are leaving and what time they expect to arrive at a certain destination.
“So, if you’re not there in those times, someone will start ringing around to find out where you are,” Mr Wallace said.
Google told the ABC that it always aimed to fix inaccurate digital maps ‘as quickly as possible’.
”We encourage drivers in rural areas to stay alert, be aware of your surroundings at all times, and when in doubt, follow traffic regulations and confirm signage from the road or path that you’re on,” a spokesperson said.
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Make all GPS users get a license – this seems to be the solution for everything, the fact that it is irrelevant shouldn’t be of any concern!!
Hahaha … yep….
It is people using Google Maps (which are inadequate in remote areas) not GPS users in general.
GPS used sensibly in conjunction with a proper map will tell you where you are and how far it is to somewhere else. The GPS will also keep track of where you have been so you can retrace.
Sensible GPS use should be encouraged. There is no need for people to get lost.
GPS to show position is relatively cheaper than a phone.
Hema paper maps for us when travelling in rural or remote areas.
Google Maps OK for city or suburban travel.
Same this side, Have up to date 4wd edition.
Google maps are fairly safe in built up areas as the road conditions don’t change and help is at hand .Would never trust them in the bush on an unknown track. Would combine them with a trustworthy paper map, like Hema or army survey maps. Have seen fuel stops 100’s of kilometres out of actual designation.
“We certainly have a few roads that are closed almost all year round due to flooding or damage, and Google Maps will still send people up those roads,” he said …
Don’t they put signs up that say “Road Closed” or something? How is a tourist supposed to know which council they are in and what number to ring?
Well said GUUST.
How do you ring anybody if you don’t have cell coverage (70% of the country) and no satellite phone?
If you are travelling in the outback it is your responsibility to do your research and have the appropriate maps to work out where you are going and how to get there. Yes, councils should have road closed signs but if the rain was recent council workers may not be able to get to those locations to setup the signs. It is your responsibility to ensure you remain safe. Don’t put yourself in a dangerous situation that requires other people to risk their life just because you didn’t do your research.
I totally agree with Vince and support the comments in the article from the Police and SES officers. Additionally, monitor the BOM site for forecasts when coverage is available, e.g. when refuelling and at the same time ask the locals what is happening with the weather there and on the route you intend to take.
Also, download onto your tablet reliable maps from HEMA, Memory Map, ExplorOz, etc. They are cheap insurance, considering the consequences of getting lost and possibly stuck in real trouble, as well as avoiding the anxiety, the cost and the nuisance of delays in having to turn around to use the proper route in the first place.
I don’t travel through remote outback areas but I do use Google Maps over a GPS. I’ve had several & found them mostly useless. Last one was a Tom Tom that regularly gave me totally unsuitable routes for my 8m motorhome eg dirt tracks even though all settings were correct. I also use common sense, travel with paper maps & ask people if I’m in any doubt.
I don’t trust Google maps at all, even in towns and cities. It always sends you the wrong way or to the wrong location if you are trying to find a particular business.
I always use paper maps. I see the who outlay.