Enjoying your holiday is important, but if you aren’t used to being in the countryside you may not know when you could be injured or cause an accident. Here are some great tips.

Safety on foot

Walking or running outdoors always requires common sense and judgement. Here are some tips to keep yourself safe. West Sussex has some great chalky terrain but it can be slippery in the wet, so be careful. Take extra care when crossing busy roads. Be wary around farmyards, particularly where there is machinery and livestock.

Although one of the UK’s sunniest places, remember that the weather can quickly change. Always take some water and a hat with you in hot weather and wrap up well in the cold. Keep your mobile phone charged up in case of an emergency. Don’t wear headphones and listen to music too loudly so you can hear what’s around you.

Safety on the road

You’ll enjoy our quiet roads but never become complacent. To stay safe on the road you need to concentrate at all times and make sure that motorists know you’re there. They also have plenty of potholes!

Here are some safety tips to remember:

• Follow the Highway Code.
• Always wear a helmet.
• Keep your bike roadworthy.
• Make sure motorists can see you.
• Be aware of vehicles

Safety off road

When you’re pushing yourself to the limit, accidents can happen. Follow these tips to keep yourself safe:

• Wear a helmet, gloves and other appropriate safety gear
• Know your fitness and limits
• Map your route and know how to reach safety if you get lost
• Choose carefully when to take risks
• Know basic first aid and, if possible, carry a small first aid kit
• Make sure your bike is suitable for the terrain
• Check your bike’s suspension, gears and brakes before you start out

CODE OF CONDUCT

Be responsible. Be respectful. Be aware.

Enjoy your time here, but be mindful of other users’ needs and respect the environment at all times. Be aware that over half the county’s terrain is protected countryside. Here are some rules to adhere to:

• Stay on bridleways and restricted byways
• Respect other users – cyclists must give way to walkers and horse riders
• A friendly shout or ring of your bell can alert other users to your approach
• Ride in small groups of three or four to prevent bunching
• Ensure the last person through a gate closes it
• Avoid lumps and bumps next to the trail as these could be ancient burial sites or other historic features
• Follow the countryside code
• Please do not cycle on public footpaths

Enjoy your surroundings. Remeber – it is the journey which is as important as arriving at the destination. Take the time to enjoy it!

© Chichester Self Catering