This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Walkers and mountaineeers urged to take care
08/04/2004
Frank McAveety, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport,
today urged the thousands of people expected to take to the
Scottish hills and mountains over Easter to resist the
temptation to go beyond their abilities.
Stressing the need to be alert to changing weather
conditions he said:
"As the Easter holiday approaches many people will be
preparing to enjoy the Scottish hills and mountains. If
their enjoyment is not to be spoiled they must recognise
that weather conditions vary widely. Individuals should be
aware of potential heavy snowfalls and that weather
conditions can be unexpectedly extreme even at this time of
year.
"During spring holiday periods there is a temptation to
be more relaxed, but hill users should still take care in
planning their trip because the tops of the Scottish hills
continue to experience full winter conditions. It is
essential that hill users remain alert and cautious as
carelessness can put lives at risk.
"The Scottish hills and mountains are remote and
beautiful places, but their attractiveness also contains
inherent hazards. I strongly advise all those thinking
about visiting the hills for recreation, whether a relaxing
walk or a challenging climb, to be properly equipped and be
ready to cope with changing ground and weather
conditions.
"I would also advise making full use of all available
sources of good advice such as weather forecasts for the
hills, the Scottish Avalanche Information Service and
always seek local advice and information on prevailing
mountain conditions.
"Be realistic about your ability and set your
objectives. Recognising that conditions are beyond your
limits is a skill in itself and taking action to modify
your planned expedition accordingly could well be a life
saver."
The Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS) has
the responsibility for communicating the mountain safety
message among all those who enjoy the Scottish hills. The
MCofS currently receives a sportscotland development grant
of £32,000 per annum.
The MCofS's mountain safety adviser's post was increased
to full-time on 1 April 2004. The expansion in the job
description will allow the post holder to develop the role
by improving good practices.
It has become established practice for the issue of a
news release encouraging mountain users to address the need
for safety on the hills. The Scottish Ministers makes 2
safety messages per annum and the MCofS are supportive of
the need for this type of message.
The sportscotland Avalanche Information Service (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 and for information on training, contact
Glenmore Lodge - Tel: 01479 861256