Walk Safely
Many walks in Scotland, particularly those on lower ground, follow specifically built and well-marked trails where little or no specialist equipment or experience is required. However, for longer routes and more particularly for any routes on Scottish hills and mountains, preparation is essential and adequate precautions should be taken whilst on your walk.
The Mountaineering Council of Scotland has provided simple guidelines for your enjoyment and safety. They are designed to help both inexperienced and regular summer hillwalkers to get the most out of a walk.
The Weather
Before setting out on ANY trip, check a weather forecast. Changeable is the best way to describe the weather in Scotland - and it can change quickly! If the weather does change for the worse, consider revising your plans. 5-day and Mountain weather forecasts can be accessed from the homepage of this site as well additional weather information on our links page.
Planning
Choose a walk which is appropriate to you or your group's abilities and the prevailing weather conditions. As a general rule, take children only on routes which allow for a safe and easy retreat and don't take them on long walks. Leave word of where you are going and remember to advise of your return. Most areas of Scotland have walks to suit all levels of ability. Consider turning back if someone in your group is tiring or getting cold.
What to Take
Clothing - warm, wind and waterproof clothing is essential for most parts of your body depending on the time of year. Remember, it will get colder and windier higher up.
Equipment - for hillwalking, always carry a map and compass and know how to use them (Ordnance Survey maps scale 1:50,000 or 1:25,000 are recommended). Carry equipment for use in an emergency such as a torch, whistle, First Aid Kit and emergency shelter. The emergency signal is six blasts on a whistle or six flashes with a torch.
Footwear - your footwear should provide good ankle support and have a firm sole with a secure grip. For rough terrain hillwalking boots are strongly recommended.
Food and Drink - take ample food and drink for your group. Always take reserve supplies. Simple high energy foods are best as are hot drinks in cold wet weather.
On Your Walk
Tracks and Paths - part of Scotland's attraction is the wilderness of its countryside. Mountain paths are not signposted and even those marked on maps can be difficult to trace. Use your map and check your location at all times.
Scotland's Varied Terrain - the varied terrain you cover, makes walking in the Scottish hills exciting; however, it can make walking slow and exhausting. Rivers and burns can rise rapidly and become impassable. Consider these points when planning your walk.
Shelter - do not assume you will find emergency shelter on the Scottish hills. Ensure that you are properly equipped.
Snow - you should avoid patches of snow unless you have the skills to cope with them. Many accidents result from a simple slip. Hillwalking in winter should be regarded as mountaineering. Daylight hours are shorter and weather conditions more severe. Gain experience in summer before venturing out in winter.
In an Emergency
If one of your party has an accident and cannot be moved:
- treat any injuries as best you can;
- calculate your exact position on the map;
- if possible, leave somebody to care for the casualty whilst others safely get help;
- on reaching a telephone, dial 999 and ask for the police;
- report the map grid reference where you left the casualty and details of their condition.
Further information is available on www.mountaineering-scotland.org.uk
