Mountains in Connaught can be dangerous without the proper care. The following points cover the minimum precautions you should take if you want to avoid getting hurt or lost, or in the event of an accident, minimise further harm.
- Plan before setting out
- Consider the equipment, experience, capabilities and enthusiasm of the party members.
- Check the weather forecast and local conditions. The hills in Connemara can be major undertakings. Night encroaches early in the winter and weather changes very quickly due to the Atlantic Ocean.
- Learn First Aid
- Many accidents occur late in the day when people are tired or are descending.
- Wear suitable boots with a treaded sole which provide support for ankles
- Clothing should be colourful, warm, windproof and
waterproof - Take spare warm clothing, hat and gloves; it is always colder on the lips.
- In addition to the usual sandwiches, take chocolate, dates or similar sweet things which restore energy quickly.
- You may not need them yourself, but someone else may.
- A map, a compass (and the ability to use one), and one reliable watch in your party.
- If you carry a GPS, learn how to read your current position.
- Carry a whistle, torch, spare batteries & bulbs, and in winter, a survival bag is essential.
- If in groups, make sure the party leader is experienced. Do not let the party become separated.
- Take special care if youngsters are in the group, especially in dangerous places.
- If you go alone, beware of the risk. Let people know your route before you start, stick to is as far as you can and notify them of any changes.
- Be prepared to turn back if conditions are against you.
- If you have a serious problem, get a message to the Gardai (112) as soon as possible and keep injured or exhausted people safe and warm until help reaches you.
- If you cannot contact anyone, use six whistle blasts or six torch flashes to signal an emergency.
- Report changes of route or timetables to someone who is expecting you.
- Do not rely on a mobile phone to get you out of trouble. Signal coverage in the mountains of Connemara is very unreliable.
- If you are able to summon help using your mobile phone, keep it switched on so you can be contacted.
- Weather changes - You can have all four seasons in one day in Connemara during the summer! So be prepared for all types of weather.
- Know the signs of exhaustion - Rest and keep warm.
- Allow extra time for your walk during the winter.
