This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Avalanche warning for hill-goers
16/01/2003
Following the recent spate of avalanches and bad weather
over Scotland's hills and mountains, hill-goers were today
warned to check weather and avalanche forecasts before
heading out.
Forecasts for this weekend indicate that very high winds
and snowfalls across much of the higher peaks of Scotland
will give rise to poor climbing conditions and increased
risk of avalanches.
Deputy Tourism, Culture and Sport Minister Dr Elaine
Murray said:
"Scotland's hills and mountains provide limitless
recreation and exercise opportunites for tens of thousands
of people. However recent avalanches and poor weather
demonstrate the increased risks in winter to those who
choose to take to the hills.
"If you do plan to be out and about in mountainous
terrain, please watch the local forecasts and read the
daily avalanche reports. These can be found on the
sportscotland Avalanche Information Service website. They could be vital to your and your family's
safety!
"It is also essential that those going out on the hills
are properly equipped with sturdy boots, waterproof jacket
and trousers, warm clothing, hat and gloves. Always carry a
map, compass and torch, and ice axe and crampons, and make
sure you know how to use them.
"Check that your route is not too ambitious and that you
will have sufficient time to complete it, and make sure
someone knows where you have gone and when you expect to
return."
The
sportscotland Avalanche Information Centre
(SAIS) which runs from December to April each year,
provides an up to date report and forecast on avalanche
hazards in Scotland's five main climbing areas. There
website address is
www.sais.gov.uk
The SAIS receives £105,000 of Executive funding through
sportscotland.
For more information about safety in the mountains,
contact the Mountaineering Council of Scotland Tel:
01738-638227. For information on training, contact Glenmore
Lodge Tel: 01479-861256
Six people have been carried down in avalancche
incidents this season, with five hospitalised.