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Frequent Questions

Last edited: Tue 30 Nov 2021

Some of those questions answered. Let us know if you have any other questions you would like answered.

Q. What happens if I get lost?
A. ASK FOR HELP/DIRECTIONS It is useful to carry a whistle. A blow on a whistle is recognised as a distress call and orienteers will come to your aid.

Q. Will there be someone to explain what to do?
A. JUST ASK. At Southern Navigator events there will be officials in yellow high visibility bibs, who are specifically there to help

Q. What type of event is best for beginners?
A. See the Calendar page which has icon showing events suitable for beginners.

Q. Is it okay to ask another orienteer for help if I don’t know where I am?
A YES BUT competitive Orienteers are dedicated to their sport and may not respond, remember for many this is a race. However, someone will.

Q. What do the circles on the map mean?
A. Their centres indicate the points on the map where the control kites are situated.

Q. How do I know what to look for when in the forest?
A. There is always a red/orange and white kite marking the location with a unique identifier

Q. Will there be a toilet I can use?
A. ONLY SOMETIMES. Often portable toilets are available for use, though there may be a big queue, usually the final details will stipulate.

Q. Can a group of us go round together?
YES. each person may purchase a map and hire a dibber/brick if they wish to.

Q. Is first aid available if I get hurt?
A. There are usually first aiders amongst the orienteers. At larger events a first aid facility is provided and details of the nearest A&E are always available. Check the final details that are normally published prior to the event to get a full picture of the available facilities.

Q. What do all the symbols mean?

A. Normally maps will have a legend (key) to the map symbols, a typical set of symbols are shown here

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  • Frequent Questions