Walkfest
Information for participants
Health and safety, and your responsibilities
Quick check
• Choose a walk or event that is within your capabilities
• Read the ‘What to Bring’ section of the walk description
• Act responsibly and abide by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
What walk is right for me?
Our walks are graded mainly by how long they take to complete.
Please refer to the walk descriptions for full details of distance, gradients, route conditions and obstacles that may need to be negotiated.
Short
• Between 30 minutes and two hours
• Gently-paced walks, suitable for most abilities
• Routes are generally flat and on pavements and good paths
Medium (half day)
• Between two and four hours
• Often uses the path network
• Conditions underfoot can vary, with slopes and steps
Long (all day)
• ‘All-day’ walks, usually six to eight hours
• Often through more wild parts of East Lothian
• Require a reasonable level of fitness
Accessible / all-ability
• Our walk leaders try to accommodate all abilities
• Wheelchairs will be fine
• We give contact details for the walk leaders, so please do ask!
Please note that our walk hosts and leaders are experienced but they must take your word that you are sufficiently fit for the grade of walk you have chosen. If you are in any doubt as to your capabilities, especially if you are trying a new or more challenging activity, it may be advisable to seek medical advice prior to booking.
What should I bring?
Each walk has its own ‘what to bring’ section – please read it carefully.
In general, you should make sure you have appropriate footwear, waterproofs in case it’s very wet and water to drink, but you may also be advised to bring sunscreen and insect repellent, snacks and/or lunch.
We encourage participants to bring along their own basic first aid kit. It does not have to cover every eventuality, but you might consider bringing waterproof plasters, blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, insect sting/bite treatments and anti-histamine (if required).
What are everyone’s responsibilities?
Before departure, the host or leader will explain the walk and advise on any particularly difficult stages. You must make known to the host or leader any medical conditions or special circumstances which may affect your ability to complete the course.
If weather conditions become extreme, the walk may be amended or curtailed at the leader’s discretion.
Every effort will be made to ensure no walker is left trailing behind, the pace being set at that of the slowest individual. Nevertheless, we do expect walkers to be reasonably confident that they can manage the walk before setting out.
Participants or their guardians must take responsibility for ensuring:
1. That the activity suits the walker’s needs, expectations and capabilities.
2. That the walker’s actions conform to any safety guidance given.
3. That any distress or concern during, or resulting from, the activity is drawn to the immediate attention of the leader in charge.
4. That the walker is aware of the risks and hazards associated with the activity and prepared to accept them.
5. That the equipment and clothing used is suitable for the activity and worn as directed.
Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
Everyone has the right to be on most land and water in Scotland as long as they act responsibly. Key points to remember are:
1. Take responsibility for your own actions and for those you may be caring for, for example children.
2. Respect the interests of other people.
3. Care for the environment.
Go to www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot to find out more.
Liability
Please note that by taking part in a walk or event booked through East Lothian Walking Festival participants understand and accept that all outdoor activities come with risk and agree to be responsible for their own safety and that of others in their care.
Any accident or injury that occurs as a result of taking part in an activity that is part of East Lothian Walking Festival is therefore not the organisers’ liability.
For more information, please contact walks@walkfest.org.uk