Safe and Sound

When Daniel Defoe, the author of Robinson Crusoe,  visited Pennine Yorkshire in 1724 he found himself in "snow so thick that it was impossible to keep our eyes open to see our way".  He was relieved to leave the hills to arrive safely in Halifax, where he made immediately for the nearest inn!

Our beautiful countryside has welcomed thousands of visitors since Defoe's time, but it pays to think about the weather if you're planning a day on the moors.  Remember that the weather can be considerably colder on the ‘tops' than in the valley bottoms.  Make sure you have the right clothes, and plan your day around the capabilities of the least fit or the youngest members of your party.

Walking organisations such as the Ramblers offer sensible advice:  wear boots or adequate footwear and take waterproofs, spare dry clothing (including base layers) and emergency food and drink.  Drink is particularly important in very hot weather, when dehydration and even hyperthermia can be a risk. 

A compass and Ordnance Survey Explorer map OL21 South Pennines are sensible companions for a day out in open country.

A voluntary moorland rescue service operates in Pennine Yorkshire, and in emergency can be reached via 999 (ask for the police).  Remember however that mobile phone coverage is patchy in upland areas.