A new safety campaign has been launched in the Lake District. An idea first begun in Wales last year, AdventureSmart promotes a safety and preparedness message to hill-goers.

"Unfortunately there are a rising number of avoidable accidents every year, placing a strain on our volunteer mountain rescue services. So we are delighted to join AdventureSmart in encouraging walkers and all adventurers to be better prepared before heading out" said Richard Leafe of the Lake District National Park Authority.

"Whatever the activity, being AdventureSmart is about considering a few simple things to help your day stay great and to ensure that you return safe and sound looking forward to your next adventure. Experts from leading safety and sporting organisations have developed these messages to provide the essential information needed for people to get outdoors, confident that they have prepared for a great day."

AdventureSmart encourages people to ask themselves three common sense questions before they go out:

• Do I have the right gear?
• Do I know what the weather will be like?
• Am I confident I have the knowledge & skills for the day?

For more info see www.adventuresmart.uk