KMRT warning on mountain safety
THE Kerry Mountain Rescue team is pulling no punches in its warnings on safety at one of the most hazardous times of the year on the mountains. ‘Be Aware. Plan. Prepare’. That’s the message from the team as the holiday season begins; with any clear, frosty days expected to draw big numbers out on high to savour the stunning scenery.
“Snowy and frosty mountains can provide an incredible backdrop for winter walking or climbing.
With the short winter days, cold weather and dark skies, it’s more important than ever to plan ahead to ensure you stay safe out there. As the winter sets in, there are a few key safety considerations for those heading into the mountains,” KMRT PRO Alan Wallace said.
“Be Aware: Make sure you start your walk early enough in the day; be aware of what time it gets dark and allow for a change 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 torch 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.”
Mr Wallace also urged all mountain and hillgoers to carry enough for all scenarios - sturdy boots, plenty of food and warm drinks, waterproofs, maps, compasses, torches, hats, gloves, bivvy bags, fully-charged phones with spare batteries. Stay where you are in the event of an emergency and call for the KMRT on 999 or 112. The team assisted 37 people off the mountains this year - in which there was one fatality - and clocked up 1,144 rescue hours and 1,115 training hours.