Don’t get left in the dark!
Don’t get left in the dark!
Hillwalkers are being reminded to pack torches and brush up on navigation skills as clocks go back.
While many are looking forward to an extra hour in bed when the clocks go back this weekend, we’re encouraging those heading to the hills to make sure you are prepared for the shorter days and challenging conditions this time of year can bring.
The crisp clear days of Autumn are a wonderful time of year to be out in the hills. Vibrant colours cover the valley floor, and fresh dustings of snow start to settle across the peaks above. But with the daylight hours shortening, it can be all too easy to get caught out in the dark.
Ross Cadie, Senior Mountain Safety Advisor at Mountaineering Scotland, said: “With the clocks going back on the 29th of October, it is a timely reminder of both the joys of mountain adventures in autumn as well as the need to go prepared for rapid changes in conditions.
“Making sure that you have a fully charged, good quality headtorch is vital. And, if you are expecting or planning to spend time out in the dark, either with an early start or a late finish, then having a second headtorch, and spare batteries, would be an excellent idea.
But it’s not only a headtorch which is an essential addition to any hillwalker’s kit this season. Ross explained: “Autumn also brings colder, wetter and windier weather, so packing that extra warm layer and adding thicker, better waterproofs will make life more comfortable and enjoyable when out on the hills and mountains.
It’s also important to prepare in case anything should go wrong, including adding emergency supplies to your backpack. Ross added: “Having things in your bag that you can use to look after yourself is really important too. The colder weather means that you will need to have items that can keep you warm and sheltered from the elements if you need to wait for help. I would suggest carrying a group shelter, extra warm layer, a spare hat and pair of gloves, and a bothy bag, as well as the usual first aid kit, phone and whistle.”
Donald MacRae, Vice Chair of Scottish Mountain Rescue said: “Winter can be a fantastic time of year to get out into the mountains, however it can present greater challenges. Make sure you are well equipped and know how to use kit such as an ice axe and crampons. Check the weather forecast, think how the weather will impact on your day, there is nothing wrong in turning back. Ensure someone knows where you are going, what time you expect to return and what to do if you do not return.
Please remember that if you are lost, in need of assistance or in an emergency in the mountains, dial 999 ask for POLICE then MOUNTAIN RESCUE. In winter, the sooner we are contacted the better. Our volunteer teams will assist any hour, any day, any weather.”
Being able to navigate safely off the hill is crucial at any time of year, but particularly during the autumn and winter months when conditions can be difficult and your chances of having to navigate in the dark are much higher. Mountaineering Scotland offer Night Navigation courses throughout November, which provide essential skills for navigating safely in the event of being caught out by short daylight hours. To find out more, visit: www.mountaineering.scot
(top image: Mountaineering Scotland)