Hi-tech training solution to hill walking safety

Friday 28 September 2001

Getting lost in the hills in deteriorating weather conditions is a frightening prospect for most of us. Yet hundreds of people every year go out into the hills ill equipped and with little or no training in the art of navigation. An exciting new hi-tech solution has gone on release this week, funded by sportscotland with support from Ordnance Survey, aimed at improving navigation and map-reading skills through the medium of computers and ultimately improving individual safety.

"This latest training aid will help to ensure that more people can go walking in the hills, confident in the knowledge that they have the skills to do so safely..." 

'Virtually Hillwalking' is an innovative new concept providing an excellent aid for teaching navigation in the form of a CD-ROM, based on a 3D virtual model of a Scottish mountain and the surrounding countryside. By using a real mountain, Driesh in Angus, the OS map and photos of the actual view of the journey, the learner is able to relate the map to the ground as he/she progresses along the route. Essential techniques and additional hints supply the user with practice in the art of navigation, all from the safety of their own home.

Originally part of a research project carried out by the geography department of University of Edinburgh in 1996; the concept has been developed with programming and graphics by Envision, Edinburgh. Advice and support has been given by numerous individuals and organisations specialising in navigation and mountain safety. Endorsed by the Scottish Mountain Safety Forum, Chair, Kate Ross said: "This package is a welcome addition to the existing range of instructional material."

Copies of the CD-ROM are available from sportscotland or it can be downloaded here.

Commenting on the project, sportscotland Chairman, Alastair Dempster, said: "As part of our remit we are keen to encourage people of all ages to take part in outdoor recreation activities, making the most of Scotland's magnificent countryside.

"This latest training aid will help to ensure that more people can go walking in the hills, confident in the knowledge that they have the skills to do so safely, maximising their enjoyment."

To obtain a copy of the CD-ROM for review purposes please call David Liddell on 0131 472 7546.

• For information about courses on navigation and mountain safety, contact Glenmore Lodge Tel: 01479 or 861256.
• A home study pack entitled Glen Arna - Navigation and Mountain Hazard is also available from sportscotland price £6.00.