Stay safe in the fells

Bad weather, advanced terrain and injuries can create high risk-situations on the fells. A ground rule is to always be prepared to think for your self and be responsible  for your on safety. The most advanced equipment can’t replace common sense, experience and knowledge. The simple advice we give you to travel safe in the fells is: never walk alone, bring a shovel and a windsack during winter, tell someone where you are planning to go, follow marked trails and listen to weather reports.

Apps, GPS and other tools

Today there are several apps and other tools that can help us find our location and tell other where we are heading. The mountain safety council have an application that is for free. In that app you can find maps, see your own position and in advance plan a rout that you can share with your friends in social media. It makes it a whole lot easier for the mountain rescuers to find you  if you are not back in time. Of course there are many more applications that you can use. But remember, don’t let that be a replacement for maps and compasses.

It is important not to rely on technical devices, you should alway bring packing for unpredictable events.

What should I have in my backpack?

What you should pack is of course important, but equally important is how you pack your bag for your hike. It affects how it fells to cary it. The group rule for hiking is easy; heavy things close to your back and high up in the bag, centered by your shoulder blades.

In your backpack you should have the following:

• “Fika” – food, coffee and sweets. For shorter walks you eat cold food or bring a portable stove. If you do that be sure to try the portable stove before so you know that is works and how to use it.
• First aid kit, wound ointment, elastic bandage and painkillers is smart to bring with you.
• Sun glasses, SPF and a cap/hat to protect your skin from sun.
• Map and compass so you can keep track of where you are.
• A knife to carve, mend and cut food with.
• Whistle, to blow in if you need to be found in an emergency.
• Flashlight.
• Camera, binoculars and a flora and fauna-book.
• mosquito repellent and mosquito nets.

Good outerwear, sturdy waterproof boots and light rainwear is of course a must have on a hike. Remember that the weather can change quickly. Even if it is sunny when you head out it can start to rain och get cloudy during the day.

Have a good hike!