A Guide To Safe Hiking During The Coronavirus Pandemic
It’s safe to say that at this current time in the world wide pandemic, we are all a little uncertain about the rules. Rules to what, you might ask. Well, pretty much everything! Here in England at the moment, we have rules about shopping, seeing family and friends, going to work, and even rules about our own health and hygiene! Here is a guide to safe hiking during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Our movements are limited, but we are still allowed outside to enjoy the outdoors respectfully and with our own household members. Some areas are allowed ‘bubbles’, which are a support system of 6 people across other households, including your own.
So, in a time when we are having to watch our every move, how can we hike safely?
First things first. Wash your hands. For your own safety, and others, make sure you wash before you set out, and when you get back in. Ideally, we should be washing when we return from our hikes anyway. Regardless of a pandemic!
Be Prepared
Before setting out, know which route you will be travelling in, and try to avoid high traffic spots. This is the perfect time to check out lesser known routes and explore your local areas. We shouldn’t be travelling too far if we can help it, to reduce the risk of accidents, causing a strain on our emergency services. Also to reduce the time spent at service stations and to generally reduce our footprint.
Know your itinerary and take your own picnic and snacks. If you’re planning a food stop, see if you need to book and if you need to take any special measures while you are there.
A Guide To Safe Hiking During The Coronavirus Pandemic.
Hands
You may come across stiles and/or gates. Once you have touched the gates, it is best to sanitise your hands afterwards and try to avoid the usual hand spots on the gates themselves.
Face
Buffs make great face coverings whilst out and about, while Weedo have some fun designs to encourage children to wear their masks. You must still wear masks in enclosed spaces, but not necessarily outdoors. You may want to wear them for your own piece of mind though.
Space
When approaching others, it’s best to give lots of room, and either hang back a little or find a place to pass with plenty of space. Social distancing still applies outdoors so we need to be mindful of our habits. Keep 2 metres away from each other indoors and maintain a good distance outdoors.
All in all, it’s mostly common sense. We need to respect our own and others personal space. Be mindful of the Countryside Code, in terms of respecting our environment and others around you. Keep ourselves clean and hygienic, and prepare for all hiking eventualities.
Take care out there.
