Compass Companion's Group Guidelines

Learn the International Distress Signal | Emergency Action Card | Accident Procedures card | Compass Direction Finder card

Planning your day(s) outing

• Good planning is essential if you want to enjoy the Great Outdoors. 
• Time spent on preparation is never wasted - even if you walk alone or in a group, and especially so if you are in charge of a group. 

• has certain responsibilities which must never be taken lightly. Consideration must be given to the following:

• Consider the terrain because you may be liable for accidents if the chosen route is beyond their ability
• If possible make and supply a Route Card for the walk beforehand and give a copy to each member
• All members should be told the difficulty level of each walk beforehand and the chosen route / escape route if no Route Cards are issued and the expected finishing time.
• All members must carry their own essential gear
• Don't allow alcohol, jeans or trainers or anyone unprepared for bad weather to take part in the walk
• Try to plan an 'escape route' in case the weather turns foul or the unexpected happens
• Write down your route and expected return time
• Leave the details with a responsible person and inform them on your safe return (SEE 'A' BELOW )
• Keep to the route and keep together
• If you carry a Mobile Phone read our guidelines
• Consider a group Liability Insurance Policy - all members should contribute to the cost
• Carry a small First Aid kit and a list of the members details (i.e. name, address telephone number)

• Try to keep the number of members between 6 and 12
• If the group is too large it will be difficult to control and will soon become fragmented.
• Minimum number should be three. If one is injured, one can stay with the victim and one can go for help.
• If there are a larger number than 12 why not split the group into two and match the abilities of both groups at the same time. One group could start the walk from one end and the other group start at the finish. Meet midway for a 'snack an' chat!

• Group members will soon become frustrated if some can't keep up the pace or some walk too quickly.
• Remember the group is only as strong as the weakest member - so walk at their pace - not yours!
• Allow about one hour for every two miles 

• Every group must have a back marker from a safety point of view.
• Their role is remain at the rear of the group to ensure that no-one falls behind and to keep an eye out for those who may be struggling to keep up the pace
• Check the group is on the correct course (in case you have to take over from the leader)
• Count the number in the group before the walk commences and every now and then do a 'spot-check' to confirm the number.
• If a member needs a visit to the 'loo' the marker must stop and wait for them.
• On no account allow anyone to walk behind you.

• Be confident at all times in your ability - especially if unsure of the route ahead (rest breaks give you time to calmly study the map)
• Keep an eye on the weather
• Follow your position on the map at all times (you may need an accurate Grid Ref. in an emergency)
• If the 'back-marker' asks you to stop - stop
• Allow others to help you with map and compass so that they can gain experience.
• 'A' If you are delayed and expect to arrive home later than the agreed time inform the person who is waiting for your safe return

• If stopping to allow the group a quick breather - the breather only starts when the 'back-marker' reaches you. 
• Try to pick 'rest breaks' where there is a good view point - out of the wind if possible
• Look at the group, does everyone appear happy and OK?
• Check your route
• Don't have long rest breaks - especially in cold weather. Remember, people soon get cold after exertion so extra clothing may be needed when resting.
• Give members a little warning before moving off

• Set a pace to suit all abilities and consider the route chosen
• That pace must be to the slowest walker
• Average speed of most walkers is about 2 miles per hour 

In very hot weather don't push the group too hard. Dehydration is the last thing you need and can become life threatening

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Poetry Trail

"How can I forget you, having walked
And climbed on many a rocky height with you the winter through?
You have become as much a part of me
As the sharp sound of nails that bite
On rock.
Or the firm comfort of good finger holds.
We have been wet together, slipped on ice
And thawed numbed fingers with our bodies heat
On many wintery climbs.
And we have feasted royally before a fire
That drugged our slacked limbs replete
With warmth
And satisfaction for a day well spent.
We have sung gladly under stars that burn And scintillate across the winter sky
But you have gone
And silence floods the valleys and the hills Are waiting, chin on hand, for your return." Anon.

follow the poetry trail...

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