Walking and climbing safely in hot weather 

As our climate brings longer, warmer periods, climbers and walkers need to be ready for the risks that come with hot weather. Heat-related illness can develop during strenuous activity, especially when people are exposed to strong sun, carrying kit, or working hard on long routes.

With some simple planning, early action and good group awareness, hot-weather days can still be safe and enjoyable.

Before you go

• Choose easier routes, or routes with more shade, such as north-facing crags, wooded areas or forest tracks.

• Set off early where possible. An alpine start can help you avoid the worst of the heat, but remember to plan your descent and avoid being out during the hottest part of the day where you can. Often early mornings and late evenings at a crag will be a lot more tolerable.

• Carry more water than usual, especially for longer days, and consider electrolyte tablets or rehydration drinks if you are sweating heavily.

• Wear loose, lightweight clothing and light headwear. The back of the neck can be particularly sensitive to sun and heat. Remember intense heat can lead to thunderstorms normally early afternoon, so remember to still keep a light waterproof with you.

• Apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) early in the day so it has time to absorb before climbing, reducing the chance of greasy hand for rock climbing.

• Plan regular short breaks, and take them in shade whenever possible.

• If you have access to safe water, cooling your wrists or wetting exposed skin can help you cool down. Try wetting a buff or cap in water and putting it back on your head.

Signs of heat-related illness

Watch yourself and the people you are with. Heat exhaustion can usually be managed if the person is cooled down quickly, but it can become serious and develop into heat stroke if symptoms are ignored.

• Dizziness, faintness or unusual tiredness

• Headache

• Feeling sick or being sick

• Muscle cramps

• Heavy sweating, or skin that feels hot to the touch

• A rapid pulse or fast breathing that does not settle with rest

• Confusion, poor coordination, collapse or a seizure, which are emergency warning signs and likely heat-stroke.

What to do if someone is affected

If you suspect that you or someone in your group is developing heat-related illness, stop and act early. Move the person into shade or a cooler place as soon as possible. Remove or loosen unnecessary clothing, help them cool down gradually, and encourage small sips of water or a rehydration drink if available. If there is no natural shade, a bivvy bag or group shelter held up with walking poles can provide temporary shelter from the sun.

Seek urgent medical help if the person is still unwell after cooling and rest, becomes confused or very drowsy, collapses, has a seizure, loses consciousness, or shows signs of serious heatstroke. Call 999 and ask for the police then mountain rescue.

Remember animals too

It is not only people who suffer in the heat. Dogs and other animals can overheat quickly and may not show obvious signs until they are in difficulty. If you are taking a four-legged companion onto the hill, plan carefully for shade, water, ground temperature and whether the route is suitable in hot conditions.

Final reminder

Hot-weather days can be rewarding, but they need a bit more thought. Choose appropriate routes, start early, drink regularly, watch your group, and be ready to turn back if the heat is becoming a problem.