Check your equipment before you leave

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  Water and food are packed

  Work out where you can get reliable drinking water along the way, and carry water and food for your route and possible delays. If using a filter, check which contaminants it does and does not remove.

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  You have a dry, warm layer with you

  Check the forecast. Pack waterproof clothing and an extra warm layer, and keep spare clothing in dry packaging. For an overnight trip, check that your sleeping bag and mat suit the expected conditions.

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  Your route is available without a signal

  Download your route beforehand and check that the map opens offline. Share your route and expected return time with someone. Decide in advance where you can cut the trip short or turn back.

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  Your light and charging cable work

  Switch on your light, check its charge or batteries and test your phone with the powerbank and cable you will take. Keep your light where you can reach it quickly.

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  Your first aid supplies are complete and accessible

  Check your first aid kit's contents and expiry dates. Include personal essentials and tell your companion where they are. Only take equipment you know how to use.

Use this list as a starting point. In an emergency, always follow instructions from the authorities.