Safety Advice From Mountainsafe Partnership On Walking In Snowdonia
Shine Your Light
As walkers take advantage of the recent dry weather, the MountainSafe Partnership is reminding everyone to take extra care when venturing into the mountains.
The last two weeks in October are busy in Snowdonia as visitors and residents take advantage of the half term holidays. However, the days are getting shorter, it gets darker earlier, even before we turn our clocks back on the 29th of October.
Phil Benbow on behalf of the Mountain Safe Partnership explains further,
“There is a significant increase in the number of calls to rescue teams when the clocks go back, due to people becoming caught out by the reduction in daylight hours. At this time of year it is important to carry a working torch, even if you plan to get back before dark, and please don’t rely on your mobile phone and the rescue team to get you out of trouble”
Carwyn ap Myrddin, the National Park’s Area Warden for Snowdon said,
“Lack of preparation is the reason behind the majority of calls to rescue teams at this time of year. Walkers don’t consider the length of their journey before starting and they don’t consider that it gets much darker earlier these days. They don’t have a torch or a torch that’s working and relying on a mobile phone isn’t a good idea either. So, before you venture into the mountains during the next few weeks, Mountainsafe have five important messages for walkers. You have to:
- Prepare carefully – make sure that you have the right tools. You will need a map and compass, food and drink, whistle, first aid and a mobile phone with a full battery and a torch with batteries!
- Plan your route – before you start, you need to know where you’re going. Find out how long the journey should take to walk and what time does it get dark.
- Check local mountain weather forecast before you start your journey and be prepared to turn back if the weather gets worse – the mountains will still be here for you to enjoy the next time you come here.
- Dress appropriately You will need strong boots, several layers of clothing including warm gloves, hat, and waterproof coat and trousers.
- Be aware of your ability – although you can enjoy walking in the mountains, it can be hard work, even on a sunny day in October. Be aware of what you want to do and plan your trip according to fitness and experience of the group, not as individuals. “
Therefore, as the days shorten and as the clocks will be turned back, it’s vital that walkers are thoroughly prepared before going out walking in the mountains.
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