A LEADING insurance broker is launching a campaign to keep members of the public safe while visiting the countryside this summer.
Members of the H&H Insurance Brokers (HHIB) team will spend the summer months spreading awareness of how people should act in rural areas to try to reduce the number of injuries sustained by the public while out on walks or picnics in the countryside.
HHIB, which has its head office in Carlisle, has designed and produced signs highlighting the risks posed in rural settings, and will be distributing them free of charge to farmers at agricultural shows across the North so they can post them on their property, such as gates, fences and stiles.
The signs will include guidance such as when livestock is in the field and to keep your dogs on their leads to emphasise the importance of following the Countryside Code.
Natalie Carr, an account executive for HHIB which operates throughout the North of England, Scotland and Wales, said: “There is no better place to be on a hot, summer's day than the beautiful countryside we have on our doorstep.
“However, some people are unaware of the risks associated with rural areas and the unpredictability of livestock while out walking or enjoying the great outdoors, and this can increase the likelihood of injuries to members of the public.
“We are very keen to remind people how important it is to take care while out in the countryside, and the signs we will be handing out as part of our campaign will help identify the risks to make sure everybody can enjoy themselves safely.”
HHIB is keen to promote the Countryside Code to more people across the UK to encourage them to enjoy the rural parts of the country in a safe and respectful manner.
The code acts as a guide to members of the public on how to enjoy the great outdoors, providing advice on what they should, and shouldn’t, do while in the countryside.
Natalie said: “The Countryside Code provides excellent guidance on general countryside etiquette but also really important safety advice, and, you never know, refreshing yourself with some of the tips may just save your life one day.”
HHIB launched the safety campaign at the Cumberland Show, and will also have a presence at the following events: Skelton Show (July 1), Penrith Show (July 15), Stranraer Show (July 27), Border Union Show (July 29), Dumfries Show (August 5) and Westmorland Show (September 13&14).
Farmers can pick up their free signs by visiting the H&H Group marquee at these shows.
H& H Insurance Brokers is the UK’s Independent Broker of the Year for 2022 and one of the UK’s leading independent insurance brokers operating across the North of England, the Scottish Borders and Wales, with nearly 40 years of experience protecting businesses across various sectors.