Compass Companion's world of walking and outdoor pursuits

Welcome and well done, you've just joined a society of slightly stupid folk. After all, we must be daft to venture out in our atrocious UK weather! Still, at least it gets us out of the house without much cost and the gear needn't cost a fortune! 

We recommend going with experienced walkers (four is an ideal number) or a walking group (there are walk groups looking for new members on our page).
So, what do you need?
Clothing:

• Waterproof jacket: you don't need a Goretex jacket to start walking!!!!!!! Save your money for a good pair of walking boots and buy something cheaper. There are loads of waterproof jackets around so think carefully before you buy. Ask for advice from friends or shop keepers. You DO NEED a breathable jacket to allow perspiration to evaporate, otherwise you end up soaked from the inside! You can always upgrade the jacket to a better quality later on. 
• Cap / hat: a warm head is a warm body! Even better if it covers your ears.
• Boots: this is what you need money for! Good boots are worth every penny! See our page on boots for more advice.
• Socks: the right type of sock is vital to prevent blisters.  I also believe in two wearing two pairs at a time except when it is very hot although my feet rarely sweat! The choice is yours! See our page on boots for more sock advice. Always pack a spare pair - you're bound to suffer wet feet at sometime, (can also be used as a pair of gloves)
• Trousers: NEVER wear jeans! They hold water when wet, allow cold air reach the skin and encourage hypothermia. Cotton are just as bad. Manmade fibre are ideal because they don't soak up water and dry quickly.

• Underwear: not too tight unless you like the hot stuff! Breathable underwear is best.
• Rucksack: to put all your stuff in. Always best to ask other walkers what they like and why. Decide if you are going to using it day walks or for a longer period. Longer periods mean the sack will need to be bigger to get all the gear in! Too small and you'll have to decide what to leave behind! Make sure you try it on and fasten all the straps and belts. Padded shudders, side pockets and strap across the waist (spreads the load) are a must.
• ALWAYS remember, weight is the enemy. TIP: keep water containers etc. in between the liner and the rucksack. This prevents the contents of the rucksack liner becoming soaked if a bottle or flask should break.
• Binbag: placed inside the rucksack to protect all the stuff inside when it throws it down! Small re-sealable bags are great for keeping small items dry. 
• 'Sitmat': this is a small foam lightweight mat that you sit on. It keeps your 'bum' warm and dry when you sit to eat your snack. Cheap to buy and worth their weight in Gold.

Learn the International Distress Signal......
Six quick successive whistle blasts (if no whistle, Six quick successive torch/camera flashes, or wave bright clothing). Then....
Wait one minute.
Repeat the signal every minute until help arrives.
Notes: ignore all replies to your distress signal and continue to signal. This is to help guide those coming to give assitance locate you.
In the US and Canada the Signal is three whistle blasts etc.

In good weather you also need these:

• Map and Compass: you must also know how to use them (see Compass Direction Finder and Buying and Looking after your compass) Practice in good weather will prepare you a possible emergency. Why ask someone who is proficient to 'show you the ropes'? You may need these skills to save your life someday!
• Loud Whistle: (and know the International Distress Signal). Remember mobile phones may break in an accident, batteries may fail or reception be impossible. Note: the Rescue services now prefer you not to reply to a Distress Signal as it causes more trouble for them than benefit for the victim. Help them by always carrying either a Emergency Action or Accident Procedures card tied to your rucksack drawcord (to assist anyone who finds you - you may be unconscious).
• Torch and spare batteries and bulb
• Survival bag or Refuge (bivi). Again, you must learn the correct method of using them! (see Emergency Action or Accident Procedures card)
• Pencil: (try writing a casualties details or Grid Ref. etc. without one!)
• Small knife: (for sharpening your pencil and a million other uses etc.)
• Small First Aid kit: (plasters, antiseptic cream etc)
• Food and drink: take extra for emergency use only.
• If travelling abroad ensure you know the emergency telephone number(s) of the country you're going to (most numbers are on our 'Accident Procedure' card).
• Mobile phone: if  you carry a mobile please ensure your Mobile Phone keypad is 'locked' before venturing out. The Police receive thousands of false alarms due to accidental pressing of keys. It seems that in a large majority of cases the owners were not even aware of pressing any keys.
• Think carefully before using a mobile to call for help. Take a few minutes to assess the situation and to allow yourself to think calmly. If you then consider the situation serious then follow the guidelines on your Accident Procedure card or Emergency Action Card  Please don't call out the Rescue Services unless the situation is life threatening - be prepared before an accident happens (learn some First Aid and basic outdoor skills) more...

Before venturing out:
• Don't think that because you are only going out in good weather, or not going high up, that you are immune from an accident (many potentially fatal accidents have occurred in country parks). 
• Check the weather :-(  www.met-office.gov.uk
• Plan your route carefully more...
• Remember the British weather can change rapidly so be prepared for the unexpected! Never be afraid to turn back if conditions turn bad - there is always another day! 
• Always let someone know your route (and escape route) and expected return time, don't forget to tell them you're back safe
• See Guidelines and Planning 
• DON'T leave visible valuables in your car. Put them in the boot, better still leave them at home!

Risk Factors:
EVERY outdoor activity carries some risk and it is up to every individual to take reasonable precautions before venturing
outdoors.
Remember all outdoor pursuits can be dangerous, therefore it all depends on the situation, time of year, weather, equipment carried and your fitness level. You may be proficient in all outdoor emergency situations but always consider the possibility of yourself having an accident - others with you may be at risk if their knowledge is limited and your safety will depend on them!
If a walking partner or walk member is struggling to keep up or is suffering from the effects of cold weather then all are advised to return to base and not struggle on. Remember the party is only as strong as the weakest member! So please, keep together, after all you went out together so are therefore committed to helping each other - even if it means cutting your day short. That way you keep the party safe and you'll keep your friends longer! more...

Bikers:

It is VITAL you carry at least a survival bag, whistle, map and compass. If you have an accident the chances of severe hypothermia are far greater for you. This is because the lightweight clothing you wear offers little protection for the wind which can, and does kill. Remember, in forest areas very few walkers (or anyone else for that matter) are around to come to your assistance. Be prepared, and ideally carry an Emergency Action Card as well. These can easily be carried under the saddle and weight very little. At least then you'll have the right equipment and the knowledge on how to use it! 
Mountain Bike Links 

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