Guidelines regarding the Walks and Disclaimer

These walks are intended to be for those who enjoy a good brisk walk but who want to “stop and look” occasionally and still be able to catch up with the group.

On most walks there are likely to be some inclines where you will get out of breath and rather warm. Possibly there may be a shallow stream to cross and some paths are rocky. I will have walked all the routes that we do at least once.

The pace will take account of our participants but will be more than a meander.

Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots which have a good grip.

A walking stick(s) is (are) very useful for bad terrain and takes the pressure off the knees going downhill.

Wear comfortable, loose clothing preferably of a light colour to reflect the sun if it is very hot (dark colours like black absorb rather than reflect the sun)

Apply plenty of suntan lotion on the face, neck and any exposed skin before starting and, we suggest, wearing a hat to keep the sun off.

Bring plenty of water to drink. Keep the bottle handy and stop to drink frequently, to avoid the risk of dehydration. Water on its own contains very few (if any) minerals and in very warm weather a lot of minerals will leave your body as sweat (or perspiration in the case of the ladies). Supplement your water with sugar and salt or a proprietary additive to replace the minerals that you have lost.

Bring some food (energy bars, fruit etc.) to eat in order to maintain energy levels. A banana is an excellent source of Potassium which is one mineral that is lost through sweat. Also a Boiled Egg (hard boiled of course) is a great source of Protein.

If rain is a possibility bring something water/shower proof, although in general the walk will be cancelled in advance if heavy or prolonged rain is probable. If the walk is cancelled due to the weather this will be notified by email at least an hour before the walk is due to start. You will only be notified if the walk is NOT to go ahead.

The group should stay together. Participants should avoid walking alone. There should always be someone else within around 50m. This is to avoid walkers taking a wrong turn out of sight of other people. If there is a need to hurry ahead then at least two must go ahead together. Wait for others if you are unsure of the route.

Dogs are welcome but obviously you are responsible for their behavior and must be able to control them so that other walkers do not have their enjoyment spoiled in any way. Also be aware of the danger from the Processionary Caterpillars, for more information visit ramblingwithal.blogspot.com.

The dog owner will be responsible for any claim regarding damage or problems caused by their animal, and all owners should ensure that their animals are covered on their Home Contents insurance as Dogs are not covered on the groups Public Liability Insurance (see later)

We leave the meeting points pretty much on time so until you get to know the meeting places allow yourself plenty of time to get there.

More about the pace; the pace will take account of our participants but will be more than a meander. We want to have fun and we endeavour to maintain a sensible, pace also we stop occasionally to keep the group together. However, we do have to cover the ground in a reasonable time.

Disclaimer

Participation in any of my walking activities is entirely at one’s own risk, and in full knowledge that you are solely responsible for your own safety at all times, You understand and accept that I bear no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any incidents or accidents and their possible consequences to those who choose to join the walks. and I am not responsible for any injuries, mishaps or losses whatsoever, however occasioned.

You accept that any decision on which route to take or whether to continue or discontinue any walk is entirely your own choice made in the circumstances prevailing at the time, even if based on recommendations of the group leader which you are completely at liberty to disregard.

You have read the Walking Guidelines that outlines the personal responsibility of all individuals in terms of their walking equipment and the need to keep it in good condition at all times.

You understand this completely and agree to follow it. I will endeavour to promote safe practice on walks on all occasions, having regard to the conditions prevailing at any particular time.

All group participants have a collective responsibility to ensure this happens. I will explain the nature of every walk in the email informing you of the type of walk, but participation is a personal decision.

You have read and fully understand this disclaimer and you accept your responsibilities and agree that no claim of any nature can or will be made against me for any of the activities.

By attending or agreeing to attend any walk that I have organised you have deemed to have read, understood and agree with this disclaimer.

However the group now has a Public Liability Insurance in place as required by the authorities. To pay for this Insurance each person participating in a walk will be expected to pay a one off annual contribution of €6 towards the cost of the premium. Anyone wishing to bring a friend or friends along on a walk on a one-off basis, then they will be asked to pay a charity donation of €5.

On most of the walks a First Aid Kit is available and is carried by a certified First Aider.