Safety

The Cornwall Geoconservation Group cannot be held responsible for any accidents that might occur as a result of individuals participating in any activities outlined in this website, particularly whilst following the self-guided downloadable walks.

There are various important considerations that you should examine at all times when you are exploring geological sites of any nature. Please read the following sections for details of these and the Code of Conduct for visiting geological sites.

Safety and behaviour considerations for site visits and walks

Some sites are in quarries, some are along or below cliff tops, some are around old mine workings where there may be unfenced shafts and many are along the fore shore, often below high cliffs.

You should always try to walk with someone and if that is not possible, you should always inform someone where you are intending to go and then report back to them when you return. Always be aware of the local tidal movements, these vary considerably. Carry a mobile phone with you, but bear in mind that there will often be a restricted signal around the coastline and in remote places.

There are several potential dangers and these include:

1. Landslides and falling rocks

Cliff faces can be dangerous, so always carefully examine what lies above. Wear a helmet if appropriate and look out for falling rocks. This is particularly likely after storms, heavy rain and frost. Be careful not to dislodge rocks where you are scrambling, as others may be below you.

2. Slippery and uneven surfaces

Most rocks types are very slippery when wet and you should take extreme care when walking over rocks. It is quite easy to trip, stumble or fall on uneven surfaces. You should wear sensible supportive footwear with a good grip. You should not attempt to climb cliffs unless you are experienced and you have the correct equipment.

3. Becoming trapped by an incoming tide

In Cornwall, because we have large tides, the danger of becoming caught out by a rapidly rising tide is one of the greatest threats, particularly when spring tides occur. Do not consider traversing along the sea shore unless you know that you can easily retrace your footsteps before the tide comes in again. If at all in doubt, do not do it.

4. Rough seas and rogue waves

Seas can become very rough quite quickly, even in apparently calm conditions, and wave heights will often increase suddenly. Watch out for rogue waves which can reach much further up the shore than the average wave. Over the years, these kinds of situations have claimed the lives of many unwary persons.

Code of conduct

Do not collect minerals or fossils or hammer exposures. Others will be prevented from enjoying them or observing them for educational purposes. Never remove samples from in situ unless you have authorised permission to do so.

Obey the Countryside Code and observe local byelaws. Always shut gates and do not leave litter.

Always seek permission before entering private land. Respect all land owners' wishes.

Avoid disturbing wildlife or farm stock wherever you go. Plants, birds and animals may inadvertently be displaced or disturbed by careless actions. Do not approach seals, particularly in sea caves as they may, but rarely do, bite and may also carry seal pox.

Do not stack rocks. Rocks provide habitats for many living things (not only plants and animals but microbes as well). Many places in Cornwall are archaeological sites and disturbing them (e.g. by using rocks from a wall to build a stone stack) is a crime.

Inform someone of your intended route and report back on completion. Always bear in mind that someone else could think you are in difficulty if they see you in an unusual place and they might alert the rescue services, which could be embarrassing.

Do not be tempted to explore underground unless you are experienced and have the proper equipment. Never go underground alone.

Do not enter any quarry without first seeking permission. Do not touch machinery, always wear a helmet, look out for any warnings about blasting and always watch out for falling rocks.

Never take unnecessary risks.