Experience

Establish the skills, experience and fitness level of the whole group. Plan and agree a suitable route taking into account the information you have gained from the client.

Route choices

Plan your route, write it down, taking into account the group, weather, distance, daylight hours available, access and any other factors that impact on the route choice. Send a copy to EPOC

Weather conditions

Carry out a detailed weather forecast prior to the proposed walk. Use the forecast in your walk risk assessment and be realistic if your route is appropriate given the conditions and client group. Document your decision in the risk assessment form.

Emergency procedures

If things don’t go to plan you need to be prepared before you set off. You need to set up the EPOC procedure prior to leading, and fill the risk assessment form.

Hypothermia

Brought on by the cold and wet weather conditions. Brief the walkers and ensure they are suitably equipped. Carry spare clothing (hat, gloves, fleece). Carry a bothy and a bivvy.

Clothing

Brief the walkers on suitable clothing for the conditions. Explain layers, overheating, cold effects and the need to stop occasionally.

Guide kit list

• Spare clothes

• Map and compass (plus spares of both)

• Bothy/bivvy

• Torches

• GPS device

Food and drink

Ensure the walkers have sufficient food for the day. Inform the group what is needed prior to the event.

Navigation

Leaders must be qualified to Mountain Leader and have been assessed by Peak Adventures prior to taking a group.

First Aid

Leaders are required to carry a suitable First Aid kit and be qualified in outdoor First Aid.

Hazards

Leaders must risk assess all hazards on their planned route and document these on the route risk assessment form.

Dynamic Risk Assessment

This type of risk assessment is carried out during the walk. It should be a continuous process, which takes account of conditions, weather, terrain, hazards, group and any other impact factors. The dynamic risk assessment will inform any decisions you make regarding group safety.

As a result of Dynamic Risk Assessment you may decide to: -

• Alter the route

• Terminate the walk

• Seek assistance

• Invoke EPOC process

• Assist walkers in some way