With recent reports in the news discussing the inability of some 999 services in the UK being able to ascertain locations of walkers calling from remote areas (unless they have a postcode), there is even more reason to take special precautions when you think you’re going to walk in areas that don’t have them.
Walking safety is not at the forefront of everyone’s mind when they plan for a walking trip, but it should be part of the basics before setting off on an expedition. Here are a few essential items you can take with you to help you when talking to the emergency services and summoning help.
Mobile Phone
Depending on where you’re planning to go, it makes sense to carry some essential safety items that will help you be found if you get lost, especially if you need to give the emergency services your location. Carrying a spare fully charged mobile phone sealed in a water-tight container is a great move, but make sure you don’t use the phone unless there is an emergency.
It’s important to remember that choosing a basic model (ie – not a smartphone) will ensure you retain a longer battery life, essential for calls should you get into trouble.
GPS Tracking Device
There are now many cheap GPS devices on the market, some specifically designed for walkers. Having one of these handy gives you another level of protection against not being rescued and can allow emergency services to pinpoint you to the nearest meter.
Map, Compass and Knowledge
Ensuring you have a map and compass is essential as is knowing how to use them. Part of the problem discussed in recent news reports has been that emergency service operators couldn’t decipher longitude and latitude coordinates. But this doesn’t mean that you won’t need to make a note of them. If a friend is injured and none of your other navigation and contact devices work, you’ll need to be able to go and get help and show the way back again.
The bottom line is to never take walking safety for granted. Above all, be prepared!
