Navigating off-trail in the mountains: Essential advice for if you find yourself away from the established route - Navigating Uncharted Terrain: A Potential Scenario of Being Misplaced in the Mountains
Mountain guide and crisis manager for the German Alpine Association, Stefan Winter, warns about the danger of getting lost in the mountains. He shares valuable tips to reduce the risk of getting lost during a tour.
One of the most crucial aspects is regular checking of your location. At higher altitudes, above 2000 meters, it becomes harder to recognize paths due to rocky terrain and potential snow. Using a map app on a smartphone like Bergfex or Alpenvereinaktiv is the easiest way to check your location. However, a paper map is useful for emergencies and large-scale orientation.
Winter advises against taking shortcuts through the terrain that supposedly lead back to the path more quickly. These shortcuts can often lead hikers astray, especially when cattle and chamois tracks are involved. Instead, it's essential to retrace your steps exactly as you came if you realize you're no longer on the marked path.
The biggest mistake in such a situation is to go directly up or down. This can lead to dangerous situations, such as facing a cliff or getting disoriented. If you find yourself lost, it's important to first take care of your physical well-being: eat something, drink, find a windless area, and dress appropriately.
In case you can't find the way back, it's better to call for help too early than too late. The mountain rescue emergency call in the Alps can be triggered via emergency call boxes or satellite emergency beacons, which are available at specific locations and work even without mobile phone reception. An unnecessary call doesn't bother the mountain rescue service. They don't always send a helicopter immediately, and the situation can often be resolved over the phone.
Remember, getting lost in the mountains can happen to anyone, even experienced mountain guides. If there's no mobile signal, one can try to attract attention with light signals or whistling. Certain newer smartphone models can also select the emergency call without a mobile network and transmit the position via satellite connection.
A whistle and a flashlight are practical for emergency situations. A small first-aid kit, an emergency blanket, and appropriate weather protection should be in your backpack. A power bank is recommended for smartphones to conserve power in cold conditions.
Lastly, Winter warns about the risk of feeling uncomfortable and making a wrong decision out of desperation. This can be fatal in the mountains. So, always stay calm and follow the tips provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable mountain tour.
Read also:
- Stunning movie credit attributed to a wandering Giant Pacific Octopus, snatching the camera from its owner!
- Limited-Time Offer at bet365 Kansas: Secure $150 in Bonus Bets with Code TOPACTION, Applicable for Royals, Chiefs, or Any Team Participation
- Casino operator's parent company alleges Kazuo Okada wrongfully seized control through violent means at Okada Manila.
- Marketing executive leaves post nine months after taking position
