|
|
 |
 |
Choosing
Your Walk
| ·
|
Decide if you want a long-distance walk, an energetic
hill-walk or a more lowland stroll. (Easy, moderate
or difficult). Decide how long (in time) you want
to walk for. |
| ·
|
Research the walking routes that are located in
the region you are visiting or plan to walk in.
Call into the local tourist information points and
ask people locally for advise and up to date information. |
| ·
|
Match the route choice with the
ability (fitness & experience) of the walkers.
If you are not experienced in walking begin on sections
that are graded easy and consider joining a guided
walk or local walking group. |
Walk Planning –
In Advance
| ·
|
Make sure to check the weather
forecast and plan accordingly. |
| ·
|
Allow plenty of time for your
walk – at least one hour for every 4km and
add extra time for any uphill sections, rests, lunch
and taking photos (allow 2 min for every 10 meter
ascent) |
| ·
|
Know what time it gets dark and
plan to finish your walk well before that time. |
| ·
|
For seashore walks check the times
of the tide to ensure that you wont be cut off by
rising water. |
| ·
|
It is safer not to go walking
alone. |
| ·
|
Leave details of your plans with
somebody and don’t forget to contact that
person later to say that you have returned safely
e.g hotel reception |
Clothing and equipment
| ·
|
The amount of clothing and equipment
you may require will depend on the amount of time
you plan to walk for, the type of trail and the
weather conditions. |
| ·
|
Always bring waterproof jacket |
| ·
|
Wear walking boots suitable for
use on rough ground (Don’t come out on a walk
wearing new boots that have not been walked in. |
| ·
|
Bring plenty of food and liquids |
| ·
|
A mobile phone – while a
mobile phone may be useful in an emergency, it should
not be relied on as a safety aid. Coverage is often
poor in the hills and countryside. |
Additional items needed
for walking
| ·
|
Map and compass, with the ability
to use them. |
| ·
|
Map, hat, gloves, walking socks. |
| ·
|
Waterproof over trousers, a torch,
whistle and personal first aid kit. |
| ·
|
Don’t forget your camera! |
During the Walk
| ·
|
Keep your map to hand and use
it to keep track of where you are. |
| ·
|
Avoid steep ground, cliffs and
unnecessary hazards such as crossing rivers. |
| ·
|
If in a group, stay together and
watch out for each other. |
| ·
|
Be
aware of traffic, especially if walking on busy
roads |
| ·
|
Watch for changes in the weather,
if it deteriorates be prepared to alter the route
or turn back. |
| ·
|
Don’t rush, take breaks
and most importantly enjoy yourself! |
If Something Goes Wrong
| ·
|
If
you’re lost:
Don’t panic. Look at what’s around you,
think about where you have walked, then study the
map and try to work out your location |
| ·
|
If
you need help in an emergency
call the emergency number provided |
| ·
|
In
the event of a more serious emergency or accident:
If you need to send people to phone for help, make
sure they can find their way and have written details
of the group’s location and the nature of
any injuries.
Treat any injuries to the best of your ability and
make the casualty as warm and comfortable as possible.
Ensure the other members of the group are also safe
and comfortable as it may take a number of hours
for help to arrive. |
|
|
|
 |
|
