Winter Safety in the Mountains.
M. Elliott
Snow-topped mountains look beautiful but they can be death-traps
for the unprepared hiker or hill walker. Sadly, every year,
people die and are badly injured whilst exploring these regions
at this time of year.
Harsh weather conditions, bad visibility and shorter daylight
hours can all conspire to catch-out the unwary. The consequences
can be extremely serious.
Good preparation and a sensible attitude are essential for
keeping yourself safe. Here are a few tips that could help save
your life.
1) Check the weather report: Take time to listen to the radio or
TV report for the area you are intending to visit. A number of
websites and phone services also provide detailed information on
wind speeds, temperatures and avalanche risk. Don’t be afraid to
change your plans to suit your abilities.
2) Proper clothing and equipment: Make sure you have suitable
clothing to keep you warm and dry. Plan for sudden changes in the
weather. Conditions are likely to be very different as you climb
to higher elevations. Always take a map and compass (and GPS if
you have one) and know how to use these. Remember to check your
GPS batteries and take a spare set. In snow and ice conditions
you may need to take an ice axe and crampons with you. Make sure
your crampons are compatible with your boots. You can get advice
on this from any good outdoor shop. Know how to use an ice axe
properly. Get tuition if necessary.
3) Route planning: Plan your route carefully beforehand. Taking
into account the conditions and fitness and experience of you and
your group. Avoid dangerous or high risk areas. Plan an ‘escape
route’ if conditions deteriorate. Leave details of your intended
route with a trusted person at home. Check-in with them when you
have safely returned. Give them clear instructions of what to do
if you do not contact them by a certain pre-arranged time. Don’t
forget that your route will take longer to complete than it would
in summer.
4) Food and drinks: Take plenty of food and high energy snacks
with you. Take a flask for a warm drink. You are likely to be
expending much more energy at this time of year. Eat snacks
regularly and drink often. Just keeping warm takes energy! Make
sure you are well hydrated before you set out and have a good
breakfast. Take some emergency rations with you in case of
problems.
5) Be aware: Be aware of any deterioration in the conditions.
Take sensible precautions to avoid dangerous areas. Look out for
slippery ground. Don’t take unnecessary risks. Watch for signs of
hypothermia and exhaustion of group members.
6) First Aid: Take a good first aid kit with you and know how to
use it. There are many excellent First Aid courses available.
Having these skills can be a great asset.
7) Emergencies: Take an emergency blanket or shelter with you and
an emergency whistle. Six blasts of the whistle is an
internationally recognized distress signal! Don’t rely on your
mobile phone to get help. There are many areas that you cannot
get a signal.
Winter in the mountains can be a magical experience and one that
can be enjoyed safely if you are properly prepared and equipped.
Take a little time to get prepared – it could save your life.
M. Elliott is Director of the U.K. based outdoor company -
Hill-Tribe Limited, PO Box 52, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0WF,
U.K. Website: http://www.hill-tribe.com
Find More Sports Related Information:
Back to Index of All Sports Articles
Index of all Baseball Articles
