Whether you live in the Forest or are just visiting us for a fun day out, let us be your guide says Safer New Forest.
Pick up one of the bright blue ‘Welcome to the beautiful New Forest’ visitor guides from information centres and campsites around the district for useful information and reminders to help you enjoy your time safely in the forest.
Packed with tips to keep visitors safe and to protect the environment, the guide features:
- Cycling in the forest – make sure you use a padlock, wear high-vis gear and look out for cattle grids and animals on the road.
- Park wisely – never leave valuables in your car and always lock it.
- Eat out with confidence – choose a restaurant, pub or café with a high food hygiene rating.
- Camp safely – barbecues, whether gas or charcoal, should only ever be used outdoors and never taken into an enclosed space, such as a tent or caravan.
- Only use barbecues at designated campsites. Wild camping is not allowed in the forest.
- Please report any anti-social behaviour or criminal damage to the police on 101.
- Stick to the footpaths if possible; avoid farm land, bogs and marshes.
- Take your litter home or use the pony-proof litter bins.
- Keep your dog under control, use a lead if necessary, and be aware of grazing ponies and cattle and nesting birds.
Cllr Jill Cleary, New Forest District Council portfolio holder for housing and communities, said: “We welcome visitors to the New Forest and hope this little blue guide will help them get the best out of their time here, whether it’s a day trip, a walk or a holiday.
“There is plenty of useful advice for visitors so please pick one up from the local information centres or campsites.”
Alternatively, the guide can be downloaded at http://bit.ly/1l0ljyd
- If you are a local hotel or business and would like some copies of the guide for your clients, please contact community safety coordinator Stephanie Bennett on 023 8028 5588 or email stephanie.bennett@nfdc.gov.uk
