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The organisations responsible for managing the Coast Path have developed
these guidelines to help you have a safe walk. Please read and always
follow them.
As well as following the Countryside Code, when
you are walking the South West Coast Path remember:
- Staying safe is your own responsibility - please
look after yourself and other members of your group.
- Let someone know where you are going and
what time you are likely to be back - mobile
phone reception is patchy on the coast
- Take something to eat and drink
- Protect yourself from
the sun – sea breezes
can hide its strength
- Informal paths leading to beaches
can be dangerous and are best avoided
- If you are crossing
a beach, make sure you know the tide times
so you won’t be cut off
- Keep to the path and stay away from cliff edges
- please follow advisory signs and waymarks.
- Keep back from cliff edges - a slip or trip
could be fatal
- Remember that some cliffs overhang or are
unstable
- Take special care of children and dogs – please
look after them at all times.
- Keep your dog under close control
- Children and dogs
may not see potential dangers – such
as cliff edges - especially if they are excited
- Do
not disturb farm animals or wildlife – walk
around cattle not between them, especially
if they have calves
- Cattle may react aggressively to dogs
- if this happens, let your dog off the lead
- Dress sensibly for the terrain and weather - wear
suitable clothing and footwear and be ready for possible
changes in the weather.
- Check the weather forecast before you set
out
- On
the coast. mist, fog and high winds are more
likely and can be especially dangerous
- Wear suitable footwear
- Take waterproofs and extra
clothing, especially in cold weather
- Stay within your fitness level – some
sections of the Coast Path can be strenuous and/or
remote.
- Plan a walk that suits your fitness level
- Find out
about the section you plan to walk
- Turn back if the
walk is too strenuous for anyone in your group
- Be
aware that the surface of the Coast Path varies
and will generally be more natural and more
uneven away from car parks, towns and villages.
- Remember that
in remote areas or at quiet times you may not
see another person for some time if you are
in difficulties
- In an emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the
coastguard.
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