Walk Safely

Many walks in Shetland follow well-marked trails where little or no specialist equipment or experience is required. However, for longer routes and more challenging hikes, preparation is essential and adequate precautions should be taken whilst on your walk.

The Weather

Before setting out on ANY trip, check a weather forecast. Weather in Shetland can change very quickly! If the weather does change for the worse, consider revising your plans. Weather forecasts can be accessed from the homepage.

Planning

Choose a walk which is appropriate to you or your group's abilities and the prevailing weather conditions. As a general rule, take children only on routes which allow for a safe and easy retreat and don't take them on long walks. Leave word of where you are going and remember to advise of your return. Consider turning back if someone in your group is tiring or getting cold.

What to Take

Clothing

Warm, wind and waterproof clothing is essential for most parts of your body depending on the time of year.
Equipment - for hillwalking, always carry a map and compass and know how to use them (Ordnance Survey maps scale 1:25,000 are recommended). Carry equipment for use in an emergency such as a torch, whistle, First Aid Kit and emergency shelter. The emergency signal is six blasts on a whistle or six flashes with a torch.

Footwear

Your footwear should provide good ankle support and have a firm sole with a secure grip. For rough terrain hillwalking boots are strongly recommended.

Food and Drink

Take ample food and drink for your group. Always take reserve supplies. Simple high energy foods are best as are hot drinks in cold wet weather.

In an Emergency

If one of your party has an accident and cannot be moved:

treat any injuries as best you can;
calculate your exact position on the map;
if possible, leave somebody to care for the casualty whilst others safely get help;
on reaching a telephone, dial 999 and ask for the police;
report the map grid reference where you left the casualty and details of their condition.


Walking Grades

Easy Walks

Walks under 4 kilometers, usually suitable for majority abilities.

Moderate Walks

Walks under 8 kilometers, usually suitable for most abilities. Walks surface may be loose, uneven and muddy. Sensible footwear required.

Longer Walks

Walks over 8 kilometers, usually suitable for those with a good standard of fitness. Walks surface likely to be more challenging, loose, uneven and muddy. Stout waterproof footwear with ankle support required.