PEOPLE are being reminded to think about their fitness as they start getting out and about again to prevent a rise in emergency situations.

Cleveland Mountain Rescue is encouraging people to think about their current skills and level of fitness if they are returning to the hills following a break.

A spokesperson said: "Whilst the Government has advised that people should minimise travel and stay as local as possible we can still expect to see an increase in people travelling further for exercise than we have seen in recent months.

"Our mountain rescue volunteers, like many people, are looking forward to getting into the countryside again. Many of our team members have had limited opportunities to ‘get on the hill’ because of the restrictions and it will take time for everyone, including us, to build up their hill fitness levels again. We all need to think about our current skill levels and capabilities (including fitness), anticipate the weather and have the equipment and clothing to stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors.

"So why not build up slowly – don't assume that you can walk, run and cycle etc as far or as fast as you could before lockdown. Perhaps starting with a few shorter exercise periods and building up gradually would be best."

The team is also calling on people to abide by the countryside code and to "respect, protect and enjoy" the environment.

It added: "It’s great for people to be able to enjoy the outdoors and our Mountain Rescue volunteers will continue to be on call 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, whenever needed.

"We just ask for your help in the coming months by eliminating avoidable problems so that we are available for emergencies. So let’s make the most of the opportunities – get out and enjoy your exercise but be prepared, be ‘adventure smart’.

"For advice on ‘staying safe’ people are invited to check out the Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team’s website which includes guidance on clothing, footwear, navigation, essential kit, use of mobile phones and first aid."