Scottish Natural Heritage says 'act responsibly' when taking exercise
Walkers, joggers and cyclists are being urged to act responsibly when out for their local exercise during Covid-19 restrictions, with extra consideration for people working outdoors.
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has provided guidance emphasising the importance of social distancing and following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. It also contains advice for land managers.
Spring is an important time for many key outdoor workers and a social media campaign will provide advice on responsible access. This includes following all reasonable requests to avoid fields with young or pregnant livestock, farmyards and other busy areas.
Dog owners are asked to keep their pets close at heel or on a lead when on farmland and it is advised to try and plan routes that avoid the need to touch surfaces such as gates.
Pete Rawcliffe, head of people and nature at SNH, said: “Exercise and fresh air is important for our wellbeing and we encourage people to make the most of their local walks or cycles during restrictions. But we need to make sure that we are still following social distancing rules when outdoors, and that we respect the health and safety of farmers and others working on the land.
"If we follow Scottish Government advice and stay local for our exercise, make use of the paths and open spaces near to us and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access code, we will be doing our bit to beat Covid-19 and end restrictions”.
For full guidance, including downloadable signs for land managers, and posters for those wishing to support the online campaign, go to www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot