The following advice and information is considered the minimum necessary to enable walkers to be self sufficient in areas remote from habitation and not readily accessible to help.
CLOTHING
Footwear is most important and with so many boots available today it is
important you get the correct fit with a well-defined patterned sole. These will protect the foot and ankle, help to provide
good
grip on wet grass or stones, prove comfortable on rocky ground and be reasonably
waterproof. Particular care should be taken that children also have suitable
footwear. Socks, usually two pairs, trousers or all in one waterproof
sallopetes, modern breathable base layers work well with fleece tops & jackets and are recommended
for warmth.
For outer covering, a windproof jacket is important if warmth provided by the inner layers is to be maintained. Waterproof clothing is vital whether it be Gore-Tex, paclite or aqua dry if the walker is not to suffer adversely from the effects of rain, snow or even wind chill. Wet clothing provides little insulation and can dramatically reduce the body's ability to retain heat. Gloves are also necessary and should be waterproof.
Extra
clothing, socks, fleeces, gloves, should be carried as well as waterproofs and a
survival bag, even when the weather appears to be good. A rucksack is
essential and will also be needed for food, first aid kit and other items;
ideally each member of the party should have his/her own sack.
FOOD
Light meals at intervals throughout the day are better than one main meal and a
long halt.
In addition to
the food required and the personal tastes of the party, extra food should be
carried as a reserve in case of delay or emergency. Easily absorbed, high-energy
foods such as chocolate, fruitcake, raisins, biscuits, Kendal mint cake,
glucose, are suitable as reserves and to supplement the sandwiches, apples etc.,
usually carried. It is advisable to carry some liquid and important to drink at
intervals, particularly in hot humid conditions, but also when strenuous ascents
are involved in any conditions, many energy drinks are available and it is
personal preference which one you choose. Hill burns are usually safe to drink from
particularly at the higher levels but
sterilisation tablets are available from most chemists.
FIRST AID KIT AND OTHER
ITEMS
Remember that a minor accident can become a major problem when miles or hours
away from help. A small first aid kit can enable a party to deal effectively
with the injury and complete the walk. Bandages, adhesive plasters, antiseptic
cream, safety pins, cotton wool and scissors are sufficient in most cases.
Many other
items could be included, but torch, knife, string and insect repellent are
amongst the most useful and exclusion of them is often regretted There are many
ready made kits available from various suppliers.
NAVIGATION
Always carry a map and compass and be able to use them.
The descriptions
in guidebooks are only an aid to map reading and no substitute for it. Consult
the map and compare the country with it at regular intervals; if in doubt, spend
more time on map reading; it will save frustration, possibly danger and usually
in the end a lot of time.
The maps recommended are the Ordnance Survey 1:50,000. The 1:25,000 Ordnance Survey map can also be extremely interesting, but several sheets may be required to cover longer walks and the greater detail may confuse the inexperienced.
A 'Silva' type compass with a transparent base is recommended. It will enable bearings to be taken easily on the map and make it possible to work from them in navigation over the ground. Handheld GPS units are available relatively cheaply but should not be used instead of a map and compass although they have many useful properties which can aid navigation.
A good compass is essential in mist when natural or man-made features are blotted out. Without it, progress can at least be haphazard, or even dangerous. Do not trust your sense of direction; the compass is much more likely to be right. A whistle should be carried by each member of the party to maintain contact if separated, or to contact another group if necessary in an emergency.
If you become lost or unsure of your position, either retrace your tracks to your last known position or, after working out roughly where you are, if it is safe, head in the direction that will take you back on course.
If you become
completely lost, stop and consider which is the safest direction to get off the
mountain. Use the compass to travel carefully in that direction until you
recognise features, relocate yourself and make your way to lower ground.
WINTER CONDITIONS
The severe winter conditions experienced in the Scottish hills have over the
years claimed many lives. These conditions can be very demanding and require
experience and skill as well as additional equipment. Always set yourself a
realistic target for a days outing. Do not overstretch yourself or your
abilities. Ensure that you have all the proper equipment, including Ice axe and
crampons and additional clothing, food and a survival bag, space blanket, etc.,
to enhance your safety should it be necessary for you to stay out overnight.
WEATHER
The weather conditions on the hills, particularly on the summits; differ
considerably from those in the glens, and even more from those of the urban
environment from which many people set out. The effect on the hillwalker can be
considerable and may necessitate shortening or otherwise modifying, even
abandoning a planned walk.