WHAT TO DO IF… YOU BECOME CRAGFAST

Llanberis Mountain Rescue co-ordinator Rob Johnson has some great advice.

Help, I’m freaking out and I can’t move!

Sit down, take some deep breaths, have a drink and a rest.

I feel dizzy, my palms are sweating and my legs have gone wobbly.

It’s okay, nothing bad has happened and nothing bad is going to happen. Take a breather, relax and then look rationally at where you are. If this was at sea-level you probably wouldn’t think twice about it.

Okay, I’m starting to feel better…

Is there anyone else around who can keep you company? Don’t be afraid to ask for help until you get back onto ground where you feel comfortable. If not, then can you go back the way that you came? You know that you got this far – you can do it again.

I found someone. I think we’re on the way. Great, take your time and concentrate on the rock and your movements.

Will I ever be able to do things like this again? Sure, you just need to get familiar with exposure. When you plan your routes make sure you know what you’re letting yourself in for, then when you get onto steep ground it won’t be a surprise. If it wasn’t enjoyable then reduce your aspirations next time.