Even the most experienced visitor can end up in trouble. Check the weather first to decide what you should wear and how you should plan for your trip. Even a trip to a tea shop can be spoiled if you forget your brolly!
Outdoor safety guide
Great Outdoors Superstore have produced an excellent safety guide to walkingwhich applies to many of our outdoor activities. It gives handy hints about the essential preparation you should do before heading out into the hills as well as what to do if you find yourself in trouble.
Clothing and equipment for walking
Clothing
- Comfortable clothing/layers
- Waterproof/windproof outer jacket
- Boots with good sole pattern - trainers aren't suitable except on the simplest of walks as they can slip and don't support the ankle.
- Hat and gloves
- Spare warm clothing
Remember, when you're resting, you may need more layers than when you're on the move. Several thin layers give good insulation and allow you to adjust for the different activities dictated by terrain and weather conditions. Bear in mind that as you go higher it gets colder and windier.
Equipment
- Comfortable day sack
- Food and water/warm drink
- Some extra energy-giving food/emergency rations
- Large polybag/survival bag
- Whistle and torch
- First aid kit
- Map and compass
Before the walk, make sure you:
Know how to use your map and compass.
Check out the weather forecast.
Choose a walk that is suitable for all members of the group and can be changed if the weather worsens. Don't be over ambitious - allow one hour for every 2.5 miles (4km) and add one hour for every 1,500 ft (500m) of ascent, with extra time for stops for rest and food.
Leave clear details of your intended route and estimated time of return.
Know basic first aid and how to call for help in an emergency.
If the worst happens
If you are delayed but it isn't an emergency, for example you have descended into the wrong valley, inform your base or the police as quickly as possible so Fell Rescue is not called out unnecessarily.
Give any casualty first aid, make sure their breathing is unobstructed; dress wounds to prevent bleeding; keep them warm, sheltered and safe from further injury; also remember to protect yourself.
Send for help. Dial 999, ask for the Police. Tell the Police operator you need Fell Rescue and give your details including an accurate location (grid reference if possible). Remain on the phone unless asked to do otherwise. The police will call out the nearest Fell Rescue Team. Remember that you can not rely on there being mobile phone coverage.
Specific to the Dales
Many routes cover areas of exposed limestone which becomes very slippery when wet and will need extra care.
The area has hundreds of cave and mine entrances. These should only be explored by properly equipped and experienced people.
Swimming in our rivers
As the weather heats up, many people will be attracted to our rivers for a picnic or a paddle. The deeper pools are also tempting places for a swim, but be warned, the water can still be cold and every year some people will get into difficulties. The water maybe clean, but in the Dales it is stained by peat meaning it is impossible to see under-water obstructions such as rocks.
Ticks and tick-borne diseases
The Yorkshire Dales is not one of the parts of the UK that are 'hotspots' for ticks, but it is always possible that you might pick one up whilst walking. If you do find a tick on your skin the recommended method of removal is with a tick removal tool or pair of tweezers. You can find out more about ticks and tick-borne diseases on the BADA-UK website
Dogs in the countryside
Bringing your dog? Check out our special dog walking pages with tips on staying safe, especially around farm animals.
