Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion and Police Minister Liz Harvey have announced a campaign that hopes to save lives, as well as police and emergency resources, as thousands of prospectors get ready to head into the outback this winter.

The Seven Golden Rules campaign encourages prospectors to carry personal locater beacons at all times.

“Safety is the top priority. We have already had two major searches this prospecting season, and with more than 3000 Miner’s Rights licences issued so far, we fear more people will go missing,” Marmion said.

The push for personal beacons follows the inquest into the death of Michael Graham near Menzies following a month-long search in 2013.

According to Marmion, of the nine prospectors reported missing last year, only one of them was carrying a personal location devise.

The prospector carrying the device was able to be located within four hours.

It is hoped that the increased use of beacons will result in fewer tragedies while reducing the amount of resources used in searches.

The Seven Golden rules campaign will see tourist bureaus, libraries and caravan parks targeted with posters, brochures and booklets.