MOD launches hard hitting film to keep public and soldiers safe on Salisbury Plain
It aims to make people more aware of the potential dangers.
Salisbury Plain is a popular area for families, dog walkers, runners and cyclists but there's concern some people aren't aware of the potential dangers of accessing military land.
Now a new campaign aims to __ raise the public’s awareness and understanding of the very real risks to personal safety when using the training area.
The Defence Infrastructure Organisation, which manages the military land, has released a short film as part of the 'Respect the Range' campaign.
It highlights the risks from things like live firing, unexploded ordnance and fast-moving military vehicles..
Accessing the military estate when and where it is not safe to also puts military personnel at risk, and often interrupts vital training exercises,
The campaign is being supported by TV presenter and outdoor walking enthusiast Julia Bradbury.
WATCH:
Julia Bradbury said:
"While I love being in nature and exploring different landscapes, there are always things to be aware of: It's not just about shutting gates and having a map, because some walking trails can take you through potentially dangerous military training areas."
DIO oversees beautiful countryside that's worth exploring. The Respect the Range film shows the risks and it's important to check training times and observe safety information to avoid possible harm."
PLEA NOT TO IGNORE RED FLAGS
Brigadier Jonathan Bartholomew, DIO's Head of Overseas Region and the Defence Training Estate, said:
"The MOD supports access to military land and respects the public's enthusiasm for wanting to explore it. In return, this campaign asks everyone to respect the very real dangers associated with doing so. Whether they're dog walkers, mountain bikers or ramblers, everyone must stick to access routes and check live training and firing times before heading out."
"If a red flag is flying then access to that area is prohibited, as some form of training will be taking place. By abiding by these simple rules, everyone has a part to play in helping to ensure that we can all enjoy the land safely, and the military can train uninterrupted."
A dedicated website has been set up for the Respect the Range campaign where you can find more information along with details of firing times.
DOG HIT BY MILITARY VEHICLE
The warning has come after many incidents involving the public who use the area for walking.
One of which happened on the 8th March when a dog was hit by military vehicle.
It was working in the training area when it struck the pooch and it sadly died.
A few weeks before a person was also hit by a vehicle as they were wearing headphones and completely oblivious to the traffic behind them.
They were not seriously injured.