The leaflets are aimed at those heading for the hills

Mountain rescue teams in the Lake District are hoping to cut the number of callouts with 40,000 safety leaflets which will be distributed to visitors to the national park.

Guidebook publishers Cicerone are backing the scheme, which follows an increase in the number of incidents to which the volunteer rescuers are responding.

Richard Warren, chairman of the umbrella group for teams in the Lake District, said: “The leaflet is intended to help people make the right choices before going into the hills.

“It also provides information on what to do in the event of an accident. It will be available in numerous outlets throughout Cumbria and the Lake District and would be a very helpful addition to anyone’s rucksack when they head into the fells.”

The Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association said the numbers of mountain rescue incidents within the Lakes are starting to rise again and 2014 saw a total of 474 incidents across its area, nearly 10 per cent up on 2013 when there were 433 incidents.

The greatest increase was during the months of July to September when 182 incidents were recorded. 2015 has seen no let-up with 30 rescues in the first three weeks of January alone, including a number of fatalities.

“We want to encourage people to enjoy the fells,” Mr Warren said, “but to do it safely, understanding the risks and taking the right precautions.”

Lesley Williams of Cicerone said: “Supporting charities directly associated with mountain activities is a vital part of our role as responsible guidebook publishers and we are delighted to sponsor this information leaflet.”

The mountain rescue association said it hoped to continue the partnership with Cicerone for future publications with the aim of reducing casualty numbers.