Trail Safety

Wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions and remember they can change so take waterproof clothing with you just in case

In warm weather take a sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen, wear a hat, gloves and warm clothing in the winter

The best type of footwear should be comfortable and provide good ankle support and have a secure tread, walking boots are best as the countryside is usually uneven but wear them in first

If you are going on a long walk in unfamiliar places take a map and compass and know how to use them and equipment for use in an emergency such as a first aid kit, torch and whistle

Check the weather forecast before you leave

Take ample food and drink for everyone especially bottled water and high energy food such as chocolate or biscuits

Allow plenty of time for your walk to ensure that you return home before it gets dark build in extra time for a picnics and rests

It's safer to walk with someone else but if you walk alone leave details of where you are going and when you should be expected back and tell them when you get back home

Take your mobile phone in case you need to contact someone in an emergency but don't rely on it as reception in the outdoors is often poor

Decide how long you want to walk for and make sure that it is suitable for everyone in your group and don't be too ambitious

Watch out for obstacles on route such as fallen trees or electric fences

Keep a track on your map as to where you are as you walk

If you are in a group, stick together and don't split up

If the walk takes you on a road be observant of the traffic, country roads usually have lots of bends and traffic may find it difficult to see you, walk on the right hand side so that you can see approaching traffic and take avoiding measures if necessary

Keep dogs on leads on or approaching roads

If you think you are lost, don't panic, look at the map and work out where you are

If you need help call 999

Walk at a leisurely pace, don't set off too quickly Countryside Code

Don't let children run off, make sure that you can see them at all times

Most of all enjoy yourself and follow the Country Code