Safety tips in the Mountains

If you like hiking in the mountain, you surely know how thrilling a high-altitude hike, a climb or a iron path is. However, to fully enjoy these experiences, caution is essential.

Fondazione “Dolomiti UNESCO” (Dolomiti UNESCO Foundation), “Associazione Gestori Rifugi del Trentino”, S.A.T (Società Alpinisti Tridentini), Mountain Rescue Service and Mountain Guides of Trentino teamed up to promote a safer, more aware approach to the mountain thanks to the project “Prudenza in Montagna”: 10 tips to follow for a safer, more aware experience.

Keep in mind: choose your equipment according to the altitude and the season, and follow the advice of those who know and live the mountain everyday.

1. Before setting off, study your itinerary

Keep track of the right paths to follow, especially when you come to a crossroads, and identify possible refreshment points where you can stop for a break. If possible, download the route track so that you can check it even offline.

2. Respect the environment and choose the route according to your abilities

When hiking in the mountains, remember to leave no trace behind. Moreover, before setting off, consider the length, elevation gain and possible technical difficulties when choosing an excursion.

3. Choose the right equipment

If you enjoy trekking, make sure you bring the essentials with you: hiking boots, a water bottle, a waterproof jacket, a headlamp and a first aid kit. If you are climbing or tackling a via ferrata, do not forget the appropriate technical equipment.

4. Check weather bulletins

Especially local ones, as they provide more specific information. This advice is particularly important if you are tackling a via ferrata: make sure weather conditions are stable before setting off.

5. Better together

Having someone with you means you can rely on mutual help in case of difficulty. In the mountains, even a simple sprain can become a problem if you are alone.

6. Tell someone about your excursion

Inform friends, family members or mountain hut managers about your itinerary and your estimated return time. This information can be crucial in the event of an emergency.

7. Rely on a professional

Mountain guides, mountain hut keepers and hiking guides are excellent sources of useful information about the environmental conditions of mountain routes.

8. Pay attention to trail signs along the route

Carefully follow trail signs indicating directions (trail number and destination), as well as the red and white trail markers. Always remember to carry a map of the route (paper or digital) with you.

9. Do not hesitate to turn back

If fatigue sets in, if you have doubts about the route or if weather conditions worsen, it is better to retrace your steps along a route you already know rather than risk continuing.

10. In the event of an accident, call 112

When calling, remember to provide details about the exact location of the accident, the activity you were carrying out, the number of people involved and their condition, the weather conditions, and the phone number you are calling from.