Hiking & Hillwalking Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Poisonous plants or nettles — Brief participants on plant identification. Stick to paths and avoid overgrowth. Carry antihistamines, wipes, and gloves. Encourage learning local flora to improve safety and appreciation of biodiversity.
• Wildlife and livestock encounters — Educate group on safe behaviour: stay calm, avoid eye contact, bypass livestock with distance, and leash dogs. Leaders brief on avoiding animal feeding and carry antihistamines and first aid for bites or stings.
• Group behaviour and peer pressure — Establish clear expectations early; encourage open dialogue. Train leaders in conflict management and set up regular wellbeing check-ins. Promote inclusion and safe decision-making over competitive behaviour.
• Remote location / delayed emergency response — File a route card with base contact, include estimated times and alternates. Carry radios, phones, and emergency shelters. Leaders first-aid trained and equipped with maps, compasses, and extra kit. Regular check-ins maintain safety.
• Fire risk in dry conditions — Check fire alerts and local restrictions. Prohibit smoking, campfires, or stoves near vegetation. Carry extinguishers or buckets if in permitted areas, and brief group on evacuation routes if a wildfire occurs.