photo : Paul Downey
This is one of those issues where everyone goes “yeah, yeah, it’s common-sense!”, but all too often folk forget that mountain safety is incredibly important and forget to use that common sense!
Whether it’s to do with the excitement of getting out and about in the rare mountain air, or an excess of exuberance brought about by alpine activity, people do forget about safety on the mountain. They put not only their own lives at risk, but also the lives of others.
So, a few reminders:
Mountain safety tips
- always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to get back….. and stick to it!
- take a detailed map with you, as well as leaving a copy of your planned route with someone not on the mountain;
- allow enough time to complete your trip comfortably before night falls, which means allowing for sight seeing stops and return journeys;
- if going to an area that’s ‘off the beaten track’, hire the services of a guide to take you. They will know where is good to go and where is not;
- make sure you have appropriate walking / climbing gear for the terrain. Town trainers are no good on mountain rocks;
- even if the weather is good when you set off, take a supply of lightweight layers of clothing to put on should the wind, rain or snow start whilst you’re out;
- make sure you have sufficient food and drink to see you through the duration of your expedition;
- wear something bright and carry a light in case you need help – this will make it easier for rescuers to locate you;
- even in summer, if you see snow on the ground get out. You could be in an area threatened by avalanches!