Grivel 200 Year pack

A retro pack in our Corner of Want

It’s an unusual year that finds the UK’s mountains as consistently dry as they’ve been this summer. But this rare set of circumstances has highlighted some issues which are worth taking note of...

Fire

Parched uplands have been the scenes of destructive wildfires. While the lack of rain is beyond anyone’s control, carelessly discarded cigarettes and thoughtless camp fires are not. Take extra care on wild camps. Keep your stove away from tinder-dry vegetation (elevate it on stable rocks instead), and have water ready to extinguish any accidental ignitions.

Water

Rivers and lakes have been shrinking, and some smaller water sources have dried up altogether, so don’t count on being able to collect water on your route. And as tempting as a cool dip in a mountain pool might be, sadly there have been deaths as a result. Following an incident at a quarry this summer, Coniston Mountain Rescue Team advised that: “The water in the quarries and high mountain tarns is still very cold… even strong and experienced swimmers can experience difficulties, not to mention underwater hazards that may not be obvious from above.”

Insects

The NHS has reported a rise in calls to them this summer regarding insect bites. The warmer weather tends to mean more bugs and less clothing! Apply reliable insect repellents liberally to keep the ticks, midges and horseflies at bay.

Winter Hill in Lancashire, pictured ablaze on 5 July 2018, where Fire and Rescue teams continued to battle the fire until 18 July.

Riverbed at Tewdale beck, mid-July.