Staying safe

Most of the walks on Deesidewalks.com are not technically challenging and are suitable for anyone, whether or not you have any experience of hill-walking or indeed have spent much time in the countryside or not. In fact thanks to the efforts of local charities and other bodies some of the paths are even suitable for those in wheelchairs or otherwise mobility-impaired. 

However, please bear in mind a few simple precautions when going out walking anywhere on Deeside:

• Wear or bring suitable clothing: obviously this depends on the conditions. If it's blazing sunshine in August I'm not suggesting you pack the ice-pick but remember that the weather can change quickly in the hills and that although it may be warm and dry when you start off it may get cold and or wet later, when you might be some distance from home or the nearest cafe so I'd suggest erring on the side of taking more layers than might appear necessary and, unless it is absolutely blue-skies, taking a waterproof. 
• Wear suitable footwear: again this depends on where you're going but all but the easiest walks around Deeside will involve going over some uneven terrain for some of the way. Walking boots are great. If you don't have those then trainers or at least something comfortable, with good soles and which you don't mind getting muddy.  
• Try to avoid walking alone: I'm not saying never go out alone, but just in case you get lost, or something happens it is always better to have someone else with you. 
• Bring a mobile phone: be aware there isn't always mobile-phone reception in the hills but even so it's a good idea to bring your phone, properly charged. 
• Bring a map: Some of the walks I recommend are sign-posted, but others aren't, and in any case it's a good idea to bring a map. Ordinance Survey maps are available from many shops in Ballater.  

Other things to consider:

• A whistle: A good way to attract attention and get help. Remember there may not always be mobile-phone reception. 
• A compass: Particularly on longer walks, if you're not sure where you are provided you've got a map with you you've a reasonable chance of working it out. If you've got a map and a compass, so you call tell which way you're facing and which way the map should be pointing, you're chances are greatly increased. 
• Something to eat and drink: You don't really need me to tell you this one do you? Well, taking along a bar of chocolate or a flask of coffee on longer walks is definitely a good idea - but don't forget to take any litter with you! 

Good practice in the countryside:

• Please pick up any litter, leave the countryside in the same beautiful condition you found it. 
• Please close behind you any farm-gates you open to pass through. 
• Before entering any field please check you are not about to walk through growing crops or potentially to disturb any farm animals. I would advise all but the most experienced walkers not to enter any fields with animals in. You may panic them or, if they think you are the farmer come to feed them, approach you which can be disconcerting and lead to accidents. If there are any male animals in the field they can be particularly dangerous.