The Northern Territory Police Force is reminding the public to take extra care when travelling by boat or vehicle during the Wet Season, following a number of recent search and rescue operations across the Territory.
Since 1 December 2025, Police Search and Rescue Section have responded to 11 search and rescue operations, including six marine rescues and five land rescues. One marine operation extended over six days, highlighting the challenging conditions often encountered during the Wet Season.
Recent operations reinforce how quickly conditions can change at this time of year, particularly in coastal and remote areas.
EPIRBs
Police Search and Rescue have welcomed the public's use of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), which continue to play a critical role in locating people in distress.
Police are also reminding EPIRB owners to ensure their devices are registered and easily accessible, as registration provides coordination teams with important information that can assist in a faster and more effective response.
Police are reminding the community that EPIRBs are designed for genuine emergencies - situations where people have run out of safe options or the ability to self‑recover. Before activating an EPIRB, people are encouraged to take stock of their situation and use any reasonable resources available to them.
Wet Season travel safety
During the Wet Season, weather and environmental conditions can deteriorate rapidly. Police encourage the public to plan conservatively and ensure they are well prepared before heading out, whether travelling on land or at sea.
Safety advice
Marine
- Ensure vessels are fully fuelled
- Carry adequate water and food
- Check the condition of the vessel and safety equipment
- Register EPIRBs and keep them accessible
- Inform someone of your trip plans
- Check tides and weather forecasts
- Carry suitable communication equipment
Land
- Ensure vehicles are in good working order
- Carry sufficient water and food
- Carry suitable communication equipment
- Inform someone of your trip plans
- Stay with your vehicle if you become stuck
- Monitor weather forecasts and avoid floodwaters
Being prepared helps reduce risk and ensures help can reach people quickly if it is needed.
The Northern Territory Police and Police Search and Rescue Section will continue to respond to emergencies across the Territory and encourage all travellers to take simple steps to stay safe during the Wet Season.
Superintendent David Moore said, "We remind Territorians that while EPIRBs continue to save lives, they are not a substitute for careful planning and checking conditions before you leave.
"Letting a family member or friend know your plans adds a simple but important layer of safety, and police are always here to help when things do not go to plan."
