The desert can be a dangerous place and being on a ranch does not make it any less so. You must contend with the heat, stay hydrated, avoid getting lost and learn how to move around livestock. It is highly recommended to be aware of your surroundings at all times.

First of all, you must have access to water. If you are going to round up cattle, make sure you have more than you think you need. Before you realize you are thirsty, your body already needs water. Slather yourself with sunscreen and wear a hat that shades your face and neck. Appropriate footwear will protect feet and ankles from sharp rocks, thorns, cacti needles, not to mention scorpions and snakes. Never go anywhere on your own without telling someone where you are going and by which route, and do not deviate from your plan. Your life might well depend on it.

You need to watch where you are. A dry river bed floods in seconds with a flash flood from rains miles away. You must always take cover from lightning. It will hit the tallest thing around and on flat land that means you. Stay away from metal or telephone poles and trees. If you are stranded on open ground, make yourself into the smallest target possible. Squat and put your hands on your head. Laying flat on the ground only makes you a bigger target. Never get between an animal and its exit or between it and a gate. Your body will give before the animal does. This includes the emus as wells as traditional cattle. The use of common sense, awareness of where you are and what you are around can make being on a desert ranch a positive adventure. Telling tall tales beats tales of woe.