Editing Melbourne (section)

=== '''Warnings''' ===

The distances in Australia are HUGE. Fuel and even people can be 150km to 3250km between stops. Avoid trouble with simple [http://www.ritas-outback-guide.com/OutbackSafety.html Driving Tips]and [http://www.visitvictoria.com/displayobject.cfm/objectid.00088ACF-1F92-1CF3-850D80C476A903D1/ General Advice]. Don't risk your life and the lives of others!

'''Flat Tyres''' 

In case you need to use a jack to prop the car up you should back it up with extra support in case it fails/ falls; do not go under the car while it is only supported by the jack and make sure it is completely stable and on firm ground. If you are really stuck use the spare tyre jammed under the vehicle as a support.

'''Floods and Cars''' 

Half of deaths in Australian floods occur in vehicles as a result of crossing flooded areas, despite public warnings. The average car is 6-8m (2) in surface area and a displacement of only 10-20cm of water above the chassis (the bottom of the vehicle) will cause the car to be washed away. People underestimate the force of water. Four-wheel drives are even more prone to being washed away as they have a larger surface area, despite their greater weight. The next most common cause of drowning is swimming in flooded areas (sourced from Australian Science 'Floods and Cars' June 2010). Watch this [http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-12161502 phenomenal footage] of just how dangerous floods are!

'''Heat and Dust''' 

Most of Australia seems to need a good clean, as much is covered in a fine red dust. This will pass inevitably through your vehicle air-conditioning unit into the car's interior. It will also get into the fuel filter and air-cleaner. Check that both are clean in any vehicle you purchase, failure to do this may lead to vehicle failure and poor fuel consumption. Additionally, the extreme heat will evaporate the water in the vehicles battery. Check regularly and refill with distilled water.

'''Dawn/ Dusk Driving & Animals'''

It is extremely dangerous to drive on wide open highways or poorly lit areas from dusk (from sun down) to dawn (sun rise) because it makes it extremely hard to see wild animals movement. Kangaroos, emus, and other wild animals are active and do not stop to check for vehicles approaching. If you hit an animal (road kill) DO NOT stop as you will be causing a hazard to other vehicles. Hitting an animal WILL cause major damage to your vehicle.