GETTING READY

Advance preparation is an essential safety precaution when going into the outdoors.  ‘GETTING READY’ follows a group as they look at the sort of equipment needed and how to choose the correct kind; learn about  the right way to walk, where to walk, and how to reduce this risk of injury; become aware of differing terrain and weather conditions, fitness and advance training needs; and assemble essential kit, maps, nutrition and water. The programme also addresses the camping option and travel. Duration: 24 mins

IN THE HILLS

Safety starts with a proper training, proper equipment, and knowing exactly what you are doing. ‘IN THE HILLS’ sees a group on their first day in the hills as they learn about the need for a leader, walking techniques, adjusting to the environment, weather changes, when to stop and eat, litter disposal, understanding and enjoying the mountain environment, descent techniques, and avoiding screes, cliffs and gorges. Duration: 28 mins

FIRST AID

An accident could happen to anyone going to the hills. Come face-to-face with the need to make a personal decision in a crisis. ‘FIRST AID’ covers the First Aid kit, blisters, arm and hand injuries, sprains and breaks, exposure, burns and scalds, the danger of stove / tent fires, carrying an injured person, and falls and serious injuries. Includes some highly realistic reconstructions of injuries. Duration: 30 mins

NAVIGATION

The basic essentials of navigation shown in a clear, concise manner. In ‘NAVIGATION’ a group look at the choice of maps, keys, contours, types of slope, and recognising physical features’ They tackle route planning, setting the map, the route card, escape routes, speed of travel, measuring distances and estimating time taken, direction, compass work. For safety they learn about navigation in the mist and in the dark, getting lost and basic rules for re-locating. N.B. Does NOT rely on satellite navigation or mobile phones! Duration: 30 mins

SURVIVAL

The best way to survive in the hills is to avoid survival situations. In ‘SURVIVAL’ a group prepares for a tough environment and learns about  fuelling the body, protection from adverse weather conditions, exposure symptoms and treatment, assessing the seriousness of an injury, preliminary protection, calling for help, where to go, the role of Mountain Rescue. Watch a helicopter rescue and follow a full mountain rescue exercise. Duration: 30 mins

HILL CAMPING

Long distance expeditions call for special skills that enable you to live for a number of days in wild country. ‘HILL CAMPING’ covers a group as they explore the choice of equipment, carrying loads, choosing a camp site, pitching and striking a mountain tent, types of stoves, safe refuelling, choice of food, special foods, cooking, hygiene, routine and bedding. Duration: 30 mins

The Hillcraft Series of six programmes is produced by Direct Image Productions Limited in association with The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

DVD Copyright Direct Image Productions Limited 2005