This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Spring safety warning for hill walkers
09/03/2003
Climbers and hill-walkers were encouraged today to stay
safe on the hills and not get caught out by Scotland's
changeable weather.
First Minister Jack McConnell was on a visit to the
Cairngorms where he announced that the Executive would
provide around £300,000 to help Scottish mountain rescue
teams update their radio equipment.
He said:
"Scotland's magnificent hills and mountains are a
valuable asset, attracting skiers, walkers and climbers
from throughout Scotland and further afield.
"But we must never forget that they can also be
dangerous and too many lives are lost on our hills each
year.
"However, the death toll could be higher still without
the skills and dedication of our mountain rescue teams.
These men and women are prepared to risk their own lives
to rescue walkers and climbers who are lost or injured.
"It's vital that these teams have access to modern
equipment and that's why we have committed to providing
funding to help ensure that this modernisation project can
go ahead."
The First Minister stressed that climbers and walkers
must also take responsibility for their own safety and
should not rely on mountain rescue teams to get them out of
difficulty. He said that, before venturing onto the hills,
walkers and climbers should take simple precautions, such
as ensuring they were properly dressed and had taken
account of the weather conditions.
Mr McConnell added:
"While it may feel like spring is in the air, Scotland's
hills and mountains are still in full winter condition at
present and likely to remain so throughout March and
April.
"There can be some wonderful weather during the spring
but it is important to remember that wintry conditions can
still prevail on the hills at this time. Enjoy your days in
the hills and come home safely."
The Mountaineering Council for Scotland advises walkers
and climbers to:
- Ensure they have the right clothing, footwear and
equipment - it can be easy to slip in these conditions
and difficult to stop a slide.
- Always carry an ice axe and crampons and learn how
to use them before venturing onto serious terrain. Hard
packed snow and ice require care and attention to
negotiate safely.
The current radio equipment used by Scottish mountain
rescue teams is approaching the end of its usable life and
a sub-committee of the UK Search and Rescue Working Group
is considering options for its replacement.
A study is underway and is expected to conclude this
summer when the final costs of radio replacement will be
known.
The precise amount to be provided by the Executive will
be decided once the full costs of the project are clear.
The Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland has already
raised around £200,000.