For many of us, walking and climbing is about enjoyment, recreation and freedom from structures and regulations. These activities bring us to very special places, but our enjoyment of these areas brings with it a responsibility. We need to be aware of our impact on the environment and take responsibility for our own safety. We must respect the interests of others and act as responsible partners in the use and development of the countryside. To ensure continued enjoyment of the hills and crags, we have to accept some guidelines for our activities.
Preparation
- Be properly equipped and fit for the activity concerned
- Have the skills to cope with the chosen route
- Have an up-to-date weather forecast and know the time of dusk
- Be aware of the potential hazards and know what to do if something goes wrong
- Accept the risk that is inherent in walking and climbing arid take responsibility for our own safety
Parking And Access
- Keep the number of cars used to the minimum; consider hiring a bus for group outings
- Park safely, with particular regard to allowing for entry to property. Many access problems have arisen from inconsiderate parking by recreational visitors. Remember that farmers work at weekends and that a tractor with a trailer attached needs a wide space to turn into a field or gateway.
- All land is owned by somebody and we use that land with the goodwill of the owner, not with a legal right
- Avoid aggravating known problems, use approved routes in these areas
- Be friendly and courteous when we meet landowners and local residents
- Respect private property and do not interfere with machinery, crops or animals
- Make no unnecessary noise, especially when passing near houses
- Be careful not to damage fences, walls or hedges; these are livestock boundaries and expensive to repair
- Use stiles and gates where they exist, leave gates as we find them (open or closed)
Leaders Should
- Be competent to lead groups and be appropriately equipped to ensure the safety of the group
- Be trained in first aid and carry a small first aid kit
- Know the route, the ability of the group members and ensure that they are all properly equipped
- Be prepared to alter the route to meet the needs and interests of the group, and the weather conditions
- Show a good example to the group, with regard to conservation issues and relations with landowners
- Ensure everybody in the group knows what to do, what not to do, and why
- Encourage group members to develop their walking and climbing skills