Mountain experts urge people to find reliable information on Scotland's winter hills
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With the first signs of real winter weather, mountain safety organisations are urging people heading for the hills to "ThinkWINTER".
The annual campaign focuses on sharing knowledge to ensure that those heading for Scotland’s winter hills and mountains can easily access the right information and advice.
Scotland’s leading mountain experts say they want people to be able to find trusted, relevant information on winter activities.
Mountaineering Scotland’s senior mountain safety advisor, Ross Cadie, explained: “When winter arrives in Scotland’s mountains, we need to make sure we do our homework before heading out. Planning and preparation from trusted sources and matching your adventure to your level of skill and conditions will help you return home safely.”
Now in its fifth year, the ThinkWINTER campaign is a joint venture between Mountaineering Scotland, Scottish Mountain Rescue, Mountain Training Scotland, Glenmore Lodge, Developing Mountain Biking Scotland, Snowsport Scotland, The Scottish Avalanche Information Service and Police Scotland.
Mark Diggins, from the Scottish Avalanche Information Service, said “Cold temperatures and the arrival of the first winter snowfall is an exciting time for all those who enjoy the winter mountains – we provide winter avalanche hazard information to help with your choices and planning. Even on those first days, ThinkWINTER and be switched on from day one.”
Shaun Roberts, principal of Glenmore Lodge, Scotland’s National Outdoor Training Centre, said: “The winter mountains have a habit of finding you out if you have not planned well. There is a wealth of information at your fingertips – avalanche hazard information, mountain weather information, winter equipment advice – use it well and have some amazing adventures this winter.”
It’s not only walkers and climbers who are being asked to ThinkWINTER. Anyone who takes part in winter activities – from ski and snowboard touring to mountain biking – should also make sure they prepare for Scotland’s winter conditions.
Graeme McLean, head of Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland, said: “The winter months bring additional considerations to mountain biking safely. We are keen to help provide good advice to our mountain bike community to help keep them safe and riding responsibly through the winter months.
"Over the last couple of years, many new people have taken up mountain biking and we are therefore delighted to again be part of the ThinkWINTER campaign to help get these important messages out to as wide an audience as possible.”
Snowsport Scotland CEO, Scott Simon, added: “We are blessed with some of the world’s finest scenery and terrain in which to ski-tour or split-board in Scotland. To maximise your experience and adventures, we recommend you get trained, get educated and get active in all the necessary skills and training required to take advantage of the conditions and Scottish weather. ”
Scotland’s volunteer mountain rescue teams have also been preparing for the winter season and assisting anyone who gets into difficulty in the mountains. Scottish Mountain Rescue chairman Bill Glennie said: “Do go out into the outdoors and enjoy Scotland’s mountains when many would say they are at their finest, but do it safely, with the appropriate skills and equipment, as highlighted in the ThinkWINTER campaign.
"And remember, if you are lost, injured and in need of assistance or in an emergency, dial 999 ask for police then mountain rescue.”
For more information on winter skills see www.mountaineering.scot/activities/thinkwinter and check the Scottish Avalanche Information Service at www.sais.gov.uk
