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Safety in the rain forest
Do you know, contrary to the popular image, the rain forest is in fact a very
safe place for human beings? Statistics show that more than 1,000 people die on
MalaysiaÕs road each year, and perhaps less than 10 people in the rain forest.
So, relax and enjoy Taman Negara, and take great care travelling home!
Here are some of the common-sense precautions to take in the Park.
- Trails around park HQ are well marked. Visitors can get lost in Taman Negara,
usually when they stray from the marked trails. So, visitors are advised to take
a guide for back country trip.
- Flash floods can occur in rivers. Swimmers please do not leave your
belongings by the waterÕs edge, and be alert for sudden mud-dying of the water.
Never camp close to the water,too.
- In the jungle,large trees fall or branches drop from time to time. Strong
winds are rare, and usually of short duration. If you are in the forest during a
storm, sit it out under a gap in the forest canopy and enjoy natureÕs
performance!
- There is no record of a park visitor ever bitten by a poisonous snake, and
most Malaysian species pose no threat to human life. Snakes are among the hardest
animals to find in the rain forest. But if you are lucky enough to see them,
admire them from a respectful distance.
- Carry suitable medication if you are allergic to stings.Hornet stings can be
very painful for hours, but wasp stings hurt for a minute or two only.
- If you are lucky enough to confront wild animals like tigers, elephants, or
bear, stay calm and donÕt panic. The animal will usually walk away. No Taman
Negara visitors have as yet been eaten by tigers, trampled by raging
bulls,elephants, or mauled by bears.
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