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At KitUp, we are experts when it comes to adventure, its what we live for. However, there is one thing way more important than kit, location, activity and even the adrenaline rush…SAFETY. When it comes to safety there is nothing more important, so we want to connect you with the best advice in the business. Here we have split this out into each of our activity spaces and you will find both videos and links under each heading.
Water Sports Safety
Check out Water Skills Academy and their Take A Few Minutes To SUP Safely campaign. The videos are of great quality and incredibly informative. It is much easier than we think to get into trouble in the water, so watch these, understand them and feel way more confident on your next outing.
They also offer a range of paddle sport courses from the occasional paddler through to instructor level. On top of the they are also B Corp certified, meaning their standing on sustainability and environmental issues is top notch!
Additional Water Resources
British Canoeing – Canoeing Safety Guidance
British Canoeing – Staying Safe On The Water
Go Paddling – Find The Best Launch Locations
Surf England – Surf Etiquette And Safety
Cycling Safety
Cycling has seen phenomenal increases over the last few years and now covers very different environments from road cycling to gravel to downhill mountain biking.
In January 2022 the highway code was updated in favour of cyclists so make sure you aware of the new guidance – you are no longer to stay on the left hand side and you do not have to use cycle lanes. It is also advised to cycle 2 abreast as it is safer.
Additional Cycling Resources
Global Mountain Bike Network – How To Check Over Your Bike
Bike Radar – Basic Bicycle Safety Check
Gravel bikers – How To Stay Safe Off-road
2 Wheeled Wanderer – Guide To Protective Gear
Forestry England: Mountain Biking Trail Grades & Safety
Mountain Safety
Nearly everything to do with being safe in the hills or mountains is about being prepared and understanding the conditions. If you are new to exploring the hills, we advise that you only head out on clear and more predictable days. Never underestimate the weather and how quickly it can change (especially in the UK!).
British Mountaineering Council have a lot of detail for new hillwalkers about staying safe but also do specialist courses from navigation through to avalanche awareness and rescue. Check them out.
Additional Mountain Resources
British Mountaineering Council – Walking Skills
MET Office – Mountain Safety
57 hours – Avalanche Safety And Risk
Wilderness Scotland – Basic Navigation Tips
Camping Safety
Wild camping usually refers to camping at a non camp-site location ie, remote. With that, there are a few things to be careful of. Firstly that you have the permission of the land owner to be there (only in England and Wales) or at least be prepared to arrive late and leave early. See more about the laws around wild camping here.
Once you have your general area you should make sure that you aren’t in an area that can flood overnight, will be safe from cattle and wild animals and somewhere that is accessible for emergency vehicles. If you keep these things in mind thats a great start!
Additional Camping Resources
Huck Adventures – How To Select A Good Campsite
Outdoors Magic – Tent Reviews
Backpacker Camp – Campsite Safety Tips
Wilderness England: Leave No Trace Principles
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