SAFETY IN THE HILLS

The Pentland Hills, being low lying and close to roads and habitation are relatively safe and very few incidents occur. Walkers occasionally suffer from injuries resulting from a slip or heart problems but the distance from roads means that they are quickly and easily evacuated from the hills.

The Mountaineering Council of Scotland website provides sound advice to ensure your safety in the hills.

Mountain Bikers often fall and suffer injuries. Bikers using the Hills in winter should take warm and waterproof clothing, in case they become immobilised.

With concentrations of cyclists and walkers on some paths there is the potential for a collision and both parties should bear this in mind. The Glen Road in particular is one of the busiest in the Pentlands, with walkers, bikers, vehicles and horses all potentially using the same route.

Perhaps the greatest dangers in the Hills are the 13 reservoirs especially when they freeze over and tempt children and young males to walk on the ice. In the last 10 years there have been three incidents and one fatality. All visitors should be alert to this danger.

If you do get into difficulties in the Regional Park, please contact the Ranger Service on 0131 445 3383. You may be directed to a mobile or emergency number during out of office hours.

In an emergency please contact the emergency service immediately. In an out of hours emergency, requiring the attendance of a member of park staff, please contact the City of Edinburgh number 0131 200 2000 who have the contingency plan and numbers.