Geocaching is still a niche activity, so during your first attempt you may not find the potential dangers online. Don’t worry we’re here to help!

Injury

When trying to find a Geocache it can be easy to lose track of your environment but staying alert is vitally important.

A lack of awareness whilst searching can lead to you falling over and causing sprains, cuts and in the worst case fractures.

Always keep an eye on what’s beneath you!

The Weather

The UK is infamous for its inconsistent and quickly changing weather conditions.

All year round, it is important to be looking out for heavy rain and thunderstorms that may cause paths to become less easy to tread and in worst cases some paths may become uncrossable.

In the summer, it is important to check UV levels and the temperature, as while being distracted by the fun of Geocaching, you could be left open to sunburn and heat stroke. To lessen the impacts of heat stroke it can be good to take plenty of water for the time you are out Geocaching.

Traffic

While Geocaching is a great way to get outdoors and in many cases escape the city, it is important to be aware of traffic in more built up areas. Cars can be a danger regardless of your activity.

Getting Lost

It can be easy to get caught up in the midst of a Geocache and then once you’ve found the prize, you may lose track of your route home.

To avoid this danger it can be quite simple take a map, just for if you lose signal or your phone dies and keep a note of your surroundings.

Trespassing

Make sure that wherever you are going the land is for public use or you get permission from the landowner before entering any areas of private property.

In terms of private property, most landowners will have a sign up but just in case make sure to check.

Additionally, be respectful of protected areas that may come between you and your Geocache in both cases of trespassing try to find another route.

Bare these five dangers in mind next time you Geocache, especially if you are trying the activity for the first time.

And if you are still feeling like a newbie, don’t worry. We have your caching glossary, a ‘guide for dummies’ and an equipment planner to ensure there is no stone left untouched.

For more information please check out:

Common Geocaching injuries: The following forum has examples of common injuries when Geocaching. Injuries Or Accidents While Geocaching? – General geocaching topics – Geocaching Forums

Getting lost – Learn how to read a map | OS GetOutside (ordnancesurvey.co.uk)

Trespassing – A Simple Guide to Trespass | Myerson Solicitors