Oxfordshire Area Ramblers

Walks Guidance

Inclement weather

Hot, cold, wet or windy weather - It is the responsibility of walkers to contact the leader if they feel there is a doubt that the walk will take place. Typically, this would be in the event of very challenging weather conditions. For example, ice, snow, flood or fog may mean that it is unsafe for walkers to travel to the start location. On the walk itself the route may be flooded, very windy conditions could cause hazards in woods, or high temperatures could cause health issues.

In forecast temperatures of 30°C or higher the leader should make an informed decision on whether it is safe for the walk to go ahead. The leader should base their decision on the forecast temperature, the length of the walk, the terrain, and the amount of shade. Members must accept and support the Leader’s decision. If the Leader decides the walk can go ahead safely then walkers should be reminded of the precautions to be taken including: take plenty of water; wear high-factor sun cream; and wear a hat.

In the event of adverse weather the walk leader has the authority to adapt the walk route and distance as required, or even in extreme conditions to cancel the walk.

If a Leader decides it is necessary to cancel a walk every reasonable effort should be made to inform walkers (it is accepted that this may not always be possible, for example where a walk is cancelled at short notice):

  • The Leader should notify the Group Walks Organiser that the walk has to be cancelled;
  • The Group Walks Organiser (or the Area Walks Co-ordinator) should cancel the walk on Ramblers Walks Finder (which will also cancel it on the Oxfordshire Ramblers website);
  • The Group Walks Organiser should notify the person responsible for the Group Facebook page so that a notice can be displayed on Facebook;
  • The Group Walks Organiser should arrange for an email to be sent to all members on the Group email distribution list notifying them of the cancellation;
  • Where possible someone should attend the walk starting location at the walk start time to inform anyone attending that the walk has been cancelled. Leaders are not expected to take risks getting to the start point.