Know where you are going – carry a map/chart and compass and know how to use them
Keep your energy levels up – carry food and drink
Make sure your mobile is charged – but don’t rely on it for navigation and communication
Apply sun cream, wear a sun hat
Keep in touch – make sure you carry an appropriate means of calling for help should you need to
Know where you’re going – choose a suitable route and allow enough time
Check the latest weather and ground conditions before you set off – take advice, only attempt a route if the conditions are within you and your companions’ capabilities
Know your limits
Be honest with yourself about you and your companions’ knowledge, fitness and ability
Check the latest weather and ground conditions before you set off -take advice, only attempt a route if the conditions are within you and your companions’ capabilities
If the weather or ground conditions are beyond your capabilities, or equipment, consider your options – it’s ok to choose a more suitable route or to turn back
Know how and when to get help
If you find someone in trouble, call for help, don’t put yourself at risk Inland: In an emergency call 999 – ask for the police and then the Mountain Rescue Inland waters: In an emergency call 999 – ask for Fire & Rescue Service Inland waters: In an emergency call 999 – ask for Fire & Rescue Service Sea and coastal area: In an emergency call 999 – ask for the Coastguard
Carry a whistle – six short blasts in short succession, repeated at 1 minute intervals is the international distress signal (you can also flash your torch in a similar manner)
Don’t let your dog lead you astray
If your dog is chased by cattle remember to release it off the lead
If your dog is in difficulty, water or otherwise, call for help, don’t put yourself at risk Inland: In an emergency call 999 – ask for the police and then the Mountain rescue Inland waters: In an emergency call 999 – ask for Fire & Rescue Service Sea and coastal area: In an emergency call 999 – ask for the Coastguard
Let the experts show you the way
If you’re doing something new or going somewhere new why not go with a qualified guide/instructor or sign up for some training
Look for well described, promoted routes suitable for your ability – Use with links to National Park Authority websites, described routes
The right gear’s a good idea
Know your kit – carry spares and be able to fit them
Apply sun cream, wear a sun hat
Carry a torch – it’ll save the day if you get caught out by the dark – six short torch flashes in short succession, repeated at 1 minute intervals is an international distress signal
Carry a whistle – six short blasts in short succession, repeated at 1 minute intervals is the international distress signal (you can also flash your torch in a similar manner)
Stay warm and dry; Wear walking boots, carry insulating layers and waterproofs
A fall might break your day – a good helmet and protective clothing might make your day
Float to Live
If you fall into water fight your instinct to swim until cold water shock passes; relax and float on your back until you can control your breathing
When open water swimming, if you are tired roll on to your back to rest, hold on to something that floats, signal for help if needed
When swimming in a river, float with your feet facing down stream and your bottom up – you can use your feet to kick off any hazards. Keep your bottom up to protect from contact with debris
