General Planning & Safety Advice For Cycling

Planning Advance and Safety Tips

  • Pick a trail that suits the general fitness and experience of the group. It’s probably better to concentrate on easier and less difficult cycling route when starting of
  • Make sure to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. You can get an up-to-date regional weather forecast by calling WeatherDial
  • While most trail maps are downloadable on this website, you may need to drop into the local tourist information office to pick up a copy of the trail maps, guides, etc. They can also get local tips on good places to eat or stay within easy reach of the trail
  • Do not hesitate to seek advice from local people in any area as they know their area best
  • Allow plenty of time for your cycle 
  • Be aware of dusk times and plan to finish your cycle well before that time
  • Leave details of your plans with somebody and don't forget to contact that person later to say that you have returned safely

Issues To Consider While Cycling

  1. Use a map to keep track of where you are and the progress you are making along the line of the route
  2. If in a group, stay together and watch out for each other
  3. Be aware of traffic if walking on roads
  4. Watch for changes in the weather, if it deteriorates be prepared to alter the route or turn back
  5. Don't rush, take breaks, and most importantly enjoy yourself!

If Something Goes Wrong

If you think you are lost:

  1. Don't panic, look at what's around you and think about where you have walked and the last place you saw a waymarker or signpost. You may have missed a waymarker or there may be one missing so you may have to go retrace your route.
  2. Study the map and try to work out your location, your direction of travel, where you are now and where you are going.
  3. If still lost, look for alternative routes like roads and tracks that may also get you back on the correct route.

In the event of a more serious emergency or accident:

  1. You can telephone the Mountain Rescue Service (call 999 or 112, and ask for Mountain Rescue) - Mountain Rescue is a voluntary service and should only be contacted in a genuine emergency!
  2. If you need to send people to telephone for help, make sure they can find their way and give details of the group's location and the nature of any injuries.
  3. Treat any injuries to the best of your ability and make the casualty as warm and comfortable as possible.
  4. Ensure the other members of the group are also safe and comfortable as it may take a number of hours for help to arrive.