Most walks end without a problem, but a little preparation means you can deal calmly with the ones that do not. Safety is mostly about small, sensible choices made early.
Before you go
Tell someone your plan, check the weather, and make sure your phone is charged. These three steps prevent most difficulties.
A group of three planned a ridge walk. They left a note with their route and return time. When one walker twisted an ankle, the group stayed together and called for help with a clear position, and the rescue team reached them within the hour.
If something goes wrong
Stay calm and stop. Make sure everyone is safe and warm before you decide what to do next.
- Stop and take a moment to think
- Check everyone for injuries
- Put on warm clothing and find shelter from the wind
- Work out your position from the map
- Call for help if you need it
Do not split up if someone is hurt or if visibility is poor. Staying together keeps everyone safer and makes you easier to find.
Useful numbers
Save these numbers before you leave, because signal can be poor and you may not have time to look them up.
| Service | When to use it | How to reach it |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency services | Injury or immediate danger | Call 999 or 112 |
| Mountain rescue | Lost or stuck on high ground | Call 999 and ask for mountain rescue |
| Local visitor centre | Route advice and conditions | See the centre's website |
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