More and more people want to experience the mountains’ bright nights and magnificent landscapes during the summer. But it is important to be prepared to cope with the pressures.
– The weather and deficiencies in the equipment are usually what causes you to end up in distress, says mountain safety expert Per-Olov Wikberg.
Especially short mountain hikes in the vicinity of the mountains’ winter sports facilities are becoming increasingly popular.
– There are many new mountain visitors, especially during the pandemic when you couldn’t go abroad. That group has continued to be in the mountains, says Per-Olov Wikberg, coordinator of the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s mountain safety council.
Regardless of whether the activity spans one or several days, it is important to have both the right equipment and knowledge in your backpack.
Rapid weather changes
Above all, new mountain visitors often underestimate the weather, according to Wikberg.
– The weather can cause it when it gets cold, windy and even snows in the summer. It is recurring in mountain rescue missions – people get tired or are too poorly equipped and therefore need to be picked up.
Here the choice of clothes is significant. Per-Olov Wikberg emphasizes that the equipment does not have to be expensive or advanced. But new shoes should be worn before the mountain tour, the tent tested, and the pack should contain rain and windproof shell garments, thermal garments and a dry change of clothes.
– You can get advance warning about the weather, for example via SMHI, but you should be aware that it can change quickly.
Map and compass
Another basic tip is to stick to the marked hiking trails.
– We have 600 kilometers of marked summer trails. There are good bridges, signposts, helplines and more. It is safe and secure, says Per-Olov Wikberg.
A map and compass are also recommended. The battery in the mobile phone can run out and the map provides an overview when the trip is planned in advance.
According to Wikberg, a message to a friend or relative with information about the route and time of return is simple insurance.
– If you prepare both mentally and in terms of equipment, it will be so much better.
FACTS
Good to have in the mountain pack
Shell garments that resist wind and moisture
Hat and gloves
Sunglasses and sunscreen
First dressing and chafing patch
Toilet paper
Map and compass
Thermos and/or storm kitchen
Water bottle and hat
Small knife and silver tape
Food and quick energy such as raisins and nuts
Source: fjallsakerhetsradet.se
Read more