Winter Walking
Using an Ice Axe
You must carry an ice axe when there is snow on the hills.
a.
It helps
you balance when used as a third leg.
b. The axe is useful to cut steps when the snow is hard packed
c. It can be a life saver when used as a brake if you slip.
Crampons
Always carry crampons when there is snow or ice on the hills.
a. Put crampons on when boots slip on hard snow or ice.
b. Boots must have a stiff sole and crampons should fit properly.
c. Walk with your feet further apart as accidents can happen when one
crampon snags on the other.
d. Crampons can also snag on loose trousers.
e. Check that crampons are securely fitted.
Navigation
Poor navigation is one of the most common causes of accidents when walking
in Winter.
a. Each person should carry a map and compass. ( It's easy to lose contact
with friends in mist and snow storms.)
b. Learn to take compass bearings on map and transfer this to the ground.
Practise this skill on lower ground and in good conditions.
c. Plan your route using landmarks which you can find as you are walking.
d. Practise estimating how far you have travelled from one point to another
by counting steps or timing yourself.
e. Check weather and avalanche risk before you start.
f. Carefully calculate your route to get you back before dark and have
an escape route planned if weather worsens and time is running out.
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