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Reprinted with kind permission from Mountain Rescue
To support Mountain Rescue log on to: www.mountain.rescue.org.uk www.mrcofs.org
The following points cover the minimum precautions you should take in order to maximise enjoyment and enhance your chances of a safe return.
Plan before setting out!
Consider the equipment, experience, capabilities and enthusiasm of the party members. Check the weather forecast and local conditions; Mountains can be major undertakings.
Night falls early in the winter and the further north you go!
Learn basic first aid.
Many accidents occur towards the latter part of the day when your energy levels are down and your phone battery life is low.
Did you remember to charge your battery before setting out?
Wear suitable boots with a treaded sole which provide good support for ankles.
It is advised that clothing should be colourful, warm, windproof and waterproof.
Take spare warm clothing, a hat and gloves; it is generally colder the higher you go.
Food – In addition to your usual food intake, take chocolate, dates, or similar sweet things, which restore energy quickly.
You may not need them yourself, but someone else may.
Drink – In warm conditions dehydration can be a real problem, your body uses more water climbing than walking on level ground.
Take plenty to drink, as you become more experienced you will become better able to judge the amount of fluid your body requires under different conditions.
‘Isotonic’ sports drinks consist of a good balance of salts, and carbohydrates, necessary to replace the sugars, salts and mineral lost through perspiration. This may also reduce the occurrence of muscle cramps.
A map, compass (and the ability to use them), and at least one reliable watch in the party should always be carried.
In all conditions, you should carry a whistle, torch, spare batteries, bulbs and a survival bag; but in winter conditions, an ice-axe and crampons are essential.
Climbers and mountain bikers are all urged to wear helmets at all times.
If in groups, make sure party leaders are experienced; do not let the party become separated.
Take special care of the youngest and weakest in dangerous places.
If you prefer to go alone, be aware of the additional risk.
Be prepared to turn back if conditions are against you; the Mountains will still be there tomorrow.
If you have a serious problem, get a message to the Police (999) for help as soon as possible and keep injured/exhausted people safe and warm until help reaches you.
If you cannot contact anyone, use six whistle blasts or torch flashes, repeated at minute intervals, to signal an emergency.
Report changes of route or timetable to someone who is expecting you.
Do not rely on a mobile phone to get you out of trouble. Signal coverage in mountainous areas is very unreliable.
Mountain Rescue has many years of experience in calls from mobile telephones and, whilst they are excellent when they work, there are many things that can go wrong.
Even moving a few feet in the mountains can mean losing the signal. You will be advised of best practice when contacted. If you are able to summon help using your mobile phone KEEP IT SWITCHED ON SO YOU CAN BE RE-CONTACTED.
Check the weather forecast before you set out and be prepared to change or abandon plans if the weather is unsuitable.
Pride
It is no disgrace to turn back if not certain. A party must be governed by the abilities of the weakest member.