Most of us, at some time or other, have enjoyed the experience of walking along a coastal path or beach.

To find out the hazards, the RNLI's website discussion forum, Waves, asked experts from all aspects of walking for their advice.

Be sensible, advises Bill Smith of the Coastguard AgencyPreparations for coastal walking should be the same as for any outdoor activity in that the participant should be prepared for all of the environmental factors they may be likely to meet.

Take clothing to suit the conditions. A lot of light layers are preferable to heavyweight clothing, so that if conditions are cold they will trap air to the body to Dvide warmth but can easily be removed and ;ked in rucksacks when not required. A good set of light, breathable, waterproof, foul weather gear is also essential as are good quality walking shoes or boots.

The environment is also extremely important. If walking on cliffs, stick to the footpath. Avoid the edge of cliffs, especially in wet conditions when they can be ilippery. When the weather has been wet, the edge of ;liffs may be unstable. This applies not only if walking on cliff tops but also on the beach below where there may be earth or rock falls. Do not climb the cliffs unless you are an expert, or under the supervision of an expert, and have the correct equipment.

If walking on beaches and shoreline areas, check the times and state of the tide. If the tide is rising there could be the possibility of being cut off. If walking at low water, be aware of the state of the beach and shoreline, there may be areas of deep mud and slippery surfaces- Let people know where you are going, when you intend to set off, and when and where you expect to arrive. Have a local contact who will be able to raise the alarm should they become concerned for your safety. Make sure they have the number of the local Coastguard Coordination Centre and police. Remind them that if they are very concerned for your safety that they can dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Take a mobile telephone - but do not be complacent, as they do not always work in coastal areas - particularly at the bottom of cliffs.

Remember if you are in trouble or you see someone in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.Get your essentials together, advises Richard Baker of Country Walking magazine My first stop is the internet, to check the very latest weather forecast - and that means just before I set out. The Met Office and BBC offer a good service. But no matter what they predict, I'll always stow away essentials like Gore-tex waterproofs, a hot drink, hat and a mobile phone. If 1 plan to walk on the beach, I'll look up tidal times and information, too.

The next essential is a map and compass. Following your route on an Ordnance Survey sheet is part of the fun of walking, and always knowing where you are is a requirement for safety. Do all these things and you should be shielded against the worst the weather can throw at you. If you plan well, you'll also gain much more pleasure from your walking. Oh, there's one last thing, a dose of common sense goes a long way too.Waves on the web Your forum for today's sea safety issuesThe RNLI has created a discussion forum on the internet, giving you the opportunity to learn from the experts and to share your own advice with other users, Ongoing topics include the risks of relying on modern technology to keep you out of trouble and ways of making our beaches safer for everyone to use. You will find advice for sailors, windsurfers, divers, sea anglers and more. Why not join in?For more coastal walking advice and a chance to join in the debate, visit the Waves website at www.lifeboats.org.uk/waves.