20/11/2024
WINTER SAFETY MESSAGE:
With the short winter days and unpredictable weather it's very important to plan ahead to ensure you stay safe out on the mountains. As the winter sets in, there are a few key safety considerations for those heading into the mountains:
Be Aware
Make sure you start your walk or climb early enough in the day; be aware of what time it gets dark and allow for rapid changes in the weather too.
Plan
Plan your day and route taking into consideration a reliable mountain weather forecast. Leave a route plan with a responsible person. Don't forget to keep an eye on the weather during the day.
Always be prepared to turn back or take a shorter route. The mountains will still be there another day.
Prepare
Whatever your plans, you’ll need a good headtorch and spare batteries in case you get delayed. People sometimes prefer to carry a second lightweight torch so they don’t need to change batteries in the cold or the dark if the head torch packs up.
Equipment Checklist (minimum)
• Sturdy footwear with a good tread
• Food and warm drinks
• Waterproofs
• Map and compass and ability to navigate
• Hat and gloves
• Torch and batteries
• Extra layers to keep warm and dry
• Fully charged phone and spare battery
• Bivvy bag or group shelter and first aid kit
• In snow and ice conditions you will also need an ice axe, crampons and winter skills!
If you need to call out mountain rescue, first make a note of all relevant details:
• Location (with a grid reference if possible)
• Name, gender and age of casualty
• Nature of injuries or emergency
• Number of people in the party
• Your mobile phone number.
Dial 999 or 112, then ask for ‘‘Mountain Rescue’.
Give all your prepared details of the incident and STAY WHERE YOU ARE until contacted by the rescue team.
For more information on mountain safety click link below:
https://kerrymountainrescue.ie/mountain-safety/
