Mapsolute points sat nav users in a safe direction.

Online mapping company, Mapsolute, has issued a simple ten point guide to responsible Internet navigation, aimed primarily at users of satellite navigation (sat nav) systems, following a recent spate of incidents where drivers have found themselves going down a route that either they -or someone else--wished they hadn't! Mapsolute's overall advice is to plan ahead, particularly if you are aiming to travel through unfamiliar surroundings. This is possible by planning a journey on the Internet. Up to date traffic information and reports can help, particularly if your journey is the next day. The Internet now offers a wealth of detailed information about routes, stop points, road closures, and so on.

Mapsolute's online mapping portal, www.Map24.com, provides users with a host of route planning features, including traffic information, stop off points for a break and visual information that helps drivers to navigate with more information than just roads.

Mapsolute's Advice on How to Avoid a Blind Alley is:

1. Plan ahead especially for unfamiliar routes. This is possible by using the Internet in the comfort of your home or office rather than risking too many decisions whilst driving.

2. Just because a satellite navigation system sends you down a route, always pay very close attention to road signs.

3. Always pay attention to the road ahead, and not the voice of the satellite navigation system which is after all just a programmed machine. Although the voice may sound real, don't trust it in every scenario!

4. Listen to the radio for traffic updates. If possible, plan ahead by programming local radio stations into your car radio--you will receive far more detailed traffic reports than those given on national radio station broadcasts.

5. Leave plenty of time for your journey. If you are unsure about how long it might take, check ahead first by plotting your journey on the Internet

6. Use commonsense. If the road that your sat nav is pointing to looks as if it could present problems, eg a single track road with few passing points, then seek an alternative third or fourth route--even if it's longer.

7. Be prepared to switch off the sat nav system and use a map or ask local people for directions. Even Diversion signs can be confusing and it is better to have more local information.

8. If you have discovered an alternative route on a regular journey (to work, for instance) be considerate of the local people and environment. If it takes you through a village and past a busy school, for example, be prepared to take the longer route if you feel that it's safer for the children.

9. Many websites now contain directions and up to date information offered by hotels, etc. Check ahead, if possible, to find out if there are any current restrictions or limitations on parking.

10. And finally, remember it is better to arrive late than not at all!

For route navigation visit www.map4.com