Safety on the fells

#beadventuresmart and ask yourself these 3 questions -

Am I confident I have the knowledge & skills for the day?: Choosing an adventure that you know that is within your skillset is part of the fun – and if you want to do something that pushes beyond this, there are many ways to find a guide or instructor to help you.
Develop your skills
Do I know what the weather will be like?: As we are all used to in the UK, the weather has the potential to make or spoil your day. This doesn’t have to mean that a spot of drizzle or even a howling gale has to stop us in our tracks. Like a good Scout, being prepared and adapting your plans is the key to being in control of your day. Check the weather forecast – the Met Office is a good places to start.
Watch the weather
Do I have the right gear?: If that has prompted you to ask ‘what is the right gear?’ then you need help! Kit doesn’t need to be expensive but does need to keep you warm and dry and, in the case of boots, needs to fit well; there is nothing like a blister to ruin a good day’s walking! If your adventure involves heading out on the water then a well fitted and well-maintained buoyancy aid is essential.
Think about gear

Hiking checklist

Clothing essentials

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Waterproof jacket: Can always be kept in the rucksack until needed, don’t leave home without it
Insulating mid layer: Fleeces, soft-shell jackets, down jackets, dependent on the weather
Breathable base layer: Look for technical materials, avoid cotton t-shirts
Walking trousers: Quick drying trousers with a good range of movement, avoid denim
Waterproof over-trousers: A great option for over your walking trousers in a downpour
Hats & gloves: Include sun hat
Watch: or any reliable method of telling the time
Rucksack: well fitted, adjusted correctly and comfortable

Rucksack essentials

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Footwear

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A family paddling two kayaks together on open water with the fells beyond

Safety on the water

The water can look appealing but even in summer it can be particularly cold. Follow these swimming do’s and don’t’s to have fun and stay safe.

Open water swimming

In an emergency

Call 999 and ask for Police then Mountain Rescue.

The Mountain Rescue teams in the Lake District, staffed by unpaid volunteers, attend many call outs each year. As registered charities they rely on voluntary contributions to continue their great work. Visit the websites of the Keswick Mountain Rescue Team and the Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team to see how you can help.