Being safe in the National Park

Even the most experienced visitor can end up in trouble if they don’t pay attention to a few simple rules. The first thing to check is the weather as this will play a big part in deciding what you should wear and how you should plan for your trip. Even a trip to a tea shop can be spoiled if you forget your brolly!

Clothing and equipment for walking

If you are going walking then it’s worth taking a bit more time over your clothing and equipment. This checklist should help:

Clothing

• Comfortable clothing/layers.

• Waterproof/windproof outer jacket.

• Boots with good sole pattern - trainers aren't suitable except on the simplest of walks as they can slip and don't support the ankle.

• Hat and gloves.

• Spare warm clothing.

• Remember, when you're resting, you may need more layers than when you're on the move. Several thin layers give good insulation and allow you to adjust for the different activities dictated by terrain and weather conditions. Bear in mind that as you go higher it gets colder and windier.

Equipment

• Comfortable day sack.

• Food and water/warm drink.

• Some extra energy-giving food/emergency rations.

• Large polybag/survival bag.

• Whistle and torch.

• First aid kit.

• Map and compass.

Before the walk, make sure you:

• Know how to use your map and compass.

• Check out the weather forecast.

• Choose a walk that is suitable for all members of the group and can be changed if the weather worsens. Don't be over ambitious - allow one hour for every 2.5 miles (4km) and add one hour for every 1,500 ft (500m) of ascent, with extra time for stops for rest and food.

• Leave clear details of your intended route and estimated time of return.

• Know basic first aid and how to call for help in an emergency.

If the worst happens

If the worst happens and you need help then follow these basic rules:

• If you are delayed but it isn't an emergency, for example you have descended into the wrong valley, inform your base or the police as quickly as possible so Fell Rescue is not called out unnecessarily.

• Give any casualty first aid, make sure their breathing is unobstructed; dress wounds to prevent bleeding; keep them warm, sheltered and safe from further injury; also remember to protect yourself.

• Send for help. Dial 999 for the police giving all the details including an accurate location (grid reference if possible). Remain at the telephone unless asked to do otherwise. The police will call out the nearest Fell Rescue Team. Remember that you can not rely on there being mobile phone coverage so make sure you know where the nearest public phone boxes are located.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is covered by several mountain rescue teams. For information on their work, fundraising and other activities, visit their websites using the links below:

• Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association (UWFRA)

• Cave Rescue Organisation (CRO)

• Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team

• Kirkby Stephen Mountain Rescue Team

A few things that are specific to the Dales

• Many routes cover areas of exposed limestone which becomes very slippery when wet and will need extra care.

• The area has hundreds of cave and mine entrances.  These should only be explored by properly equipped and experienced people.

Ticks and tick-borne diseases

The Yorkshire Dales is not one of the parts of the UK that are 'hotspots' for ticks, but it is always possible that you might pick one up whilst walking. If you do find a tick on your skin the recommended method of removal is with a tick removal tool or pair of tweezers. You can find out more about ticks and tick-borne diseases on the BADA-UK website

Dogs in the countryside

If you bring your dog with you then check out our special doggy pages with tips on staying safe especially around farm animals.