Safety

Before the walk

• Read the walk description carefully.It is your responsibility to ensure that you are sufficiently fit and appropriately equipped. If in doubt, discuss with the leader.

During the walk

• Do not force the pace: the pace of the walk is that of the slowest walker. Expect the pace to be more leisurely on walks with an easier grading.
• Do not walk in front of the leader unless invited to do so: do not lose sight of the party, and do not walk on beyond any track junction until the leader arrives.
• If you need to lag behind for a comfort break or other purpose, inform the back marker
• Follow the instructions of the leader and back marker. Comments and suggestions are usually welcome, but the leader’s decision is final.
• Do not leave the group without informing the leader
• Be aware that a single blast on a whistle means “stop”.
• Show courtesy and consideration to fellow walkers, and respect the privacy and livelihoods of local residents.

Preparation

• Choose the route.
• Undertake a pre-walk to establish parking arrangements, timings, identify potential hazards, and alternative/ escape routes where necessary. If possible this will be undertaken with a companion who can serve as back-marker.
• Liaise with estate staff where appropriate to ensure there is no clash with estate activities such as grouse or deer shooting – to find estate details go to the “Who owns Scotland” link on our Resources page
• Assess the walking grade (see below), and prepare a descriptive paragraph for the Walks Programme which accurately describes any challenges and hazards.

The day before

• Check and assess weather forecast (and for coastal walks, tide times): there are useful links for both on our Resources page. Consider alternative route or walk if necessary.
• Check personal gear and first aid kit.

At the rendezvous point

• Identify and discuss with any member of the party who appears unfit or ill-equipped for the planned walk. If you judge that, in their own interests an individual should not participate, say so clearly. Should they choose to proceed, let them know this is at their own risk.
• Identify any member of the group with special needs.
• Remind the group of hazards and challenges.
• Take a register of those attending on the appropriate record sheet.
• Identify and discuss with any member of the party who appears unfit or ill-equipped for the planned walk. If you judge that, in their own interests an individual should not participate, say so clearly. Should they choose to proceed, let them know this is at their own risk.

On the walk

• Appoint a back marker at the outset. If there group is particularly large it may also be appropriate to appoint a middle marker.
• Take a count of numbers.
• Remain at or near the front. Set an appropriate pace with regard to the terrain and the composition of the group. Keep the back marker in sight.
• Pay attention to navigation. GPS navigational aids can be very helpful, but a map and compass should always be carried.
• Respond appropriately to any untoward incident. A single blast on a whistle means “stop”.
• Remain conscious of, and responsive to, developing hazards and members of the group who may be struggling. Take appropriate rest and refreshment stops, adjust pace and route as necessary.

After the walk

• Check everyone has returned safely and can get home.
• In the rare event that an untoward incident has taken place during the walk, complete and submit an Incident Report Form.

• Walk at or near to the rear of the group
• Be aware of any walker who has fallen behind, for example for a comfort break, and give them the opportunity to catch up.
• Check a head count periodically.
• Alert the leader if the group becomes too strung out, or in the event of an untoward incident (NB – a single blast on a whistle means “stop”).  
• Make sure that any gates opened for the purpose of the walk are closed behind you.

In the programme a grade is assigned to each walk reflecting the level of difficulty and the level of fitness required, according to the following general guide:

• C    Walks of the least difficulty, not more than 10 miles distance OR 1000 feet ascent. C+ indicates more challenging gradient or terrain.
• B Walks more difficult than C+ and not exceeding 15 miles distance OR 1500 feet ascent. B+ indicates particular challenges due to gradient or terrain.
• A Walks more difficult than B+ and not exceeding 18 miles distance OR 3000 feet ascent. A+ indicates greater distance or ascent, or particular challenges due to gradient or terrain. It is recommended that before attempting A walks several B walks should be done to confirm fitness.

‘C’ walks are not short or half day ‘A’ or ‘B’ walks. They are provided so that the club can meet its objective of catering for all ages and walking strengths. The pace is accordingly leisurely with ample stops. Weather permitting, there will be opportunity for us all to enjoy the countryside in depth.

‘A’ and ‘B’ walks will still provide opportunities for stops, photography, etc. but require a higher level of fitness. Members are asked to ensure that they are fit for all walks they intend to undertake. It is recommended that before attempting A walks several B walks should be done to confirm fitness.

The following equipment is recommended: Suitable footwear, waterproof jacket and trousers (jeans are not recommended), gaiters, rucksack, spare sweater, spare socks, headgear, food, drink, gloves, whistle, survival bag, walking stick, high energy food.

Boots are essential for all grades of walks.