How to go to the mountains safely

Choose a route suited to your abilities. Avoid climbing alone at high altitudes. Respect signage. Check the weather forecast. And if the climb is more difficult than expected...

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Mountains
Mountain hikes are always enjoyable, in winter and summer. But unfortunately, the precautions taken aren't always sufficient, and in 2023, deaths during these trips doubled. Wasted lives.

HOW TO GO TO THE MOUNTAINS

Unfortunately, the situation in the mountains has worsened due to the climate crisis and the very sudden weather changes that catch hikers by surprise, even when accompanied by experienced professionals. All the more reasons to be especially careful, and go to the mountains safely, following these 10 tips we shared with the guides of the Camminare Insieme association.

PREPARE YOUR ITINERARY

In the mountains, it's best not to improvise, and not just when it comes to clothing or hiking times. The itinerary should also be carefully planned before setting out. There's always time and opportunity to change your route.

If the excursion is done in a group, which is always advisable, when planning the itinerary and calculating times, always focus on the slowest people and not the fastest.

CHOOSE A SUITABLE PATH FOR PREPARATION

We are not all climbers. On the contrary. Many of us love the mountain, but they're amateurs when they cross it. Or they have limited skills and athletic condition. These are factors that must be taken into consideration when planning a route.

The route should always be chosen based on your technical skills, physical condition, and previous training. And with a basic understanding of the high-altitude destinations you're visiting.

SUITABLE EQUIPMENT AND EQUIPMENT

Summer or winter, in any season in the mountains You need to go with the right gear. It's not a trip to the beach, or a stroll through the city. And gear is essential to deal with sudden adverse weather conditions.

Your gear should also take into account the length of the hike and the difficulty of the excursion. We recommend carrying a backpack with plenty of water and first aid supplies, especially if the route you're about to undertake is particularly challenging.

CONSULT THE BULLETINS

Now you're spoiled for choice when it comes to real-time weather conditions in the area you're traveling through. Check the weather forecasts and plan accordingly, without challenging the weather.

Weather conditions must be monitored and updated throughout the entire excursion. In the high mountains, the weather can change quite frequently and even suddenly, when you least expect it. If you have any doubts about the weather forecast, it's best to turn back.

LEAVING ALONE IS RISKER

A high-altitude hike isn't ideal for solo travel. It's better to have company, and thus protect yourself in case of unexpected problems. This, too, is a way to respect the mountains.

LEAVE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR ITINERARY AND RETURN TIME

When you set out on a high-altitude hike, it's essential to have someone informed of your itinerary, departure time, and approximate return time. It's like setting out with a guide.

DON'T HESITATE TO TRUST A PROFESSIONAL

The mountains, like the sea, are not for challenging. And if you don't have the necessary experience and training, don't brag; choose a professional guide for your excursion.

PAY ATTENTION TO SIGNAGE

In the mountains, almost everything is signposted, including areas not to be crossed. But the signs are useless if they aren't followed to the letter and without exception.

DON'T HESITATE TO RETRACE YOUR STEPS

The route you've chosen is more arduous and tiring than you imagined. The weather isn't what you expected. What to do? Simple? Retrace your steps; it's not a big deal.

And when you return, don't forget to take your trash out. Don't stray from the trail, don't take shortcuts, and respect the mountain.

IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT CALL 112

Aside from first aid in an emergency, in the event of an accident, always call 112 for emergency assistance. This service works well and can, in some cases, save lives.

STORIES OF THOSE WHO CHOOSE TO LEAVE THE CITY TO BE REBORN 

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