Part TWO
STAY SAFE!
A nice walk with your dog — the perfect way to get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and spend time bonding and enjoying each other’s company. What could possibly go wrong, asks Karen Bush?
Don’t forget your map.
TOP TIP!
Unsure what to wear and take with you on a hike? The GetOutside website (see right) has lots of tips and advice.
KNOW THE AREA
If you’re exploring a new area, study maps and use the internet to research it, and take local advice about any potential hazards.
Look for short cuts you can take along the way should you get tired or the weather starts to close in.
PAPER MAP OR GPS?
Both! GPS devices and map apps you can download to your smartphone will help you plan and navigate your route, but take a paper map as back-up in case your expensive technology gets lost, damaged, runs out of power, or fails for some reason. The most helpful maps are the OS Explorer series: visit getoutside.ordnancesurvey. co.uk/guides for paper maps, map apps, advice on choosing GPS devices, and map-reading tips.