Hiking

Guidelines
Safety

-----------------
Access
Links
Shop
PinBoard
Archive
Contact Us

Guidelines

General guidelines when hiking

• Use suntan lotion with a high UV blocking factor
• Wear sunglasses or snow goggles when necessary, and a hat and clothes that cover sensitive areas, even on cloudy days
• Avoid hiking around midday in very hot weather
• Always carry windproof and warm protective clothing, even when the weather seems fine
• Try to anticipate rain and snow storms, put on protective clothing and try to find/get to shelter as soon as possible in adverse conditions
• Drink plenty of water: 2-8 litres/day, depending on circumstances. The tour leader should advise members on the availability of water on the planned route. Each person should carry at least half a litre to one litre of water as emergency reserve, especially on unknown terrain
• Never walk without shoes or in in the dark without a torch to minimise the risk of snake bite, etc
• Apply sticky plaster or moleskin to chafed spots *before* blisters form on feet
• For trips to altitudes of over 2 400m above sea level, the leader should familiarise him/herself with the symptoms and warning signs of high altitude sickness and dehydration as well as with prevention and treatment thereof. People living near sea level are more vulnerable.

• Never underestimate the mountain: weather changes occur suddenly and severely
  
• Always take with warm clothes, food and water
  
• A minimum group size of 4 is recommended
  
• Always have the Mountain Search & Rescue contact number available in case of a life threatening emergency

Do not ignore actions by group members that could lead to accidents, injuries or illness. Although each person should be responsible for his own safety, irresponsible acts by one person may affect, and even endanger, the whole group.

Do not ignore strange behaviour by a group members in adverse conditions, as this may signal the onset of heat stroke, hypothermia or altitude sickness, depending on the conditions.