Inspector Matt Smith, Police Scotland lead for mountain rescue, said, “Our volunteer and Police Mountain Rescue teams have dealt with a number of tragic incidents in recent weeks. It’s still winter, despite what it may look like further down. I’d urge anyone setting out to plan for all eventualities.”
In recent weeks a number of serious injuries and tragic deaths have occurred on Scotland’s hills and mountains.
Hills are not holding the snow cover they typically do at this time of year, which may lead to a false sense of security for walkers. However, significant patches of snow and ice still cover the hills and are often unavoidable. These patches aren’t visible from your starting point and are likely to occur as you approach the summit.
Walkers need to be prepared for winter conditions before setting out.
🎿 Wear good winter boots suitable for weather conditions.
❄️ Put crampons on your boots to help prevent injury.
🪓 Carry an ice axe and be prepared for extreme winter weather.
🕓 Let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be home.
⛔ Don’t be afraid to turn back if conditions get too difficult.
Inspector Matt Smith, Police Scotland lead for mountain rescue, said, “Our volunteer and Police Mountain Rescue teams have dealt with a number of tragic incidents in recent weeks. It’s still winter, despite what it may look like further down. I’d urge anyone setting out to plan for all eventualities.”
ThinkWINTER
Scottish Mountain Rescue
Glenmore Lodge
Mountaineering Scotland
📸 Image courtest of Braemar Mountain Rescue
I am finishing a blog on a tragedy a few winters ago many of the lessons were in that awful event.
heavywhalley.wordpress.com 