Behavior in the High Mountains

Whether hiking in the high mountains or conquering challenging via ferratas - those who heed a few basic behaviors not only ensure their own safety, but also ensure that the mountain experience is a complete success.

For nature lovers and ambitious athletes, there is probably nothing more beautiful than the call of the mountains. The hardships of the ascent are rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view, hunger is satisfied with a hearty snack, and tired feet are cooled in a crystal-clear mountain lake. In order to fully enjoy the time in the mountains, it is important to plan ahead. The focus of the preparation is gathering information about the planned route:

• How long is the planned tour?
• What special features (glacier fields, steep slopes, wetness) need to be considered?
• How many meters of altitude will be overcome?
• How is the tour classified in terms of difficulty and fitness level?
• What equipment (clothing, backpack, provisions, helmet, carabiners, etc.) is required for the safe completion of the tour?

Experienced mountain guides also recommend drawing the route on a land or mountain map and checking it regularly during the tour. This way, an approximate position can always be determined on the way. Deviations from the planned hike are just as taboo as leaving the marked trails.

The top commandment among mountaineers and climbers is: Avoid thunderstorms! Taking a look at the weather service reports is always worthwhile. If the forecast calls for isolated heat thunderstorms, the mountain hike should be moved to the early morning hours or the morning. If a cold front is approaching, bringing thunderstorms and rain, it is worth postponing the tour. If, contrary to expectations, one does get caught in a thunderstorm, one must remain calm and act quickly:

• Avoid summits, via ferratas, ridges, and open spaces.
• Quickly leave rocks, overhangs, small caves, and steel cables.
• In the event of the danger of lightning strikes, assume the squatting position with closed feet.
• Always place luggage and climbing equipment below your own position, as lightning runs downward after impact.
• Seek shelter in a nearby hut or shelter.

Accidents in the high mountains can develop into real emergencies, as the rugged terrain poses special challenges for both first aiders and rescue services. While small abrasions or blisters can still be treated by oneself, in case of emergency, it is important to keep a cool head and organize a rapid rescue of the injured person. Important numbers:

• State emergency call center, South Tyrol mountain rescue: 118
• Alpine emergency call, Austrian mountain rescue: 140
• Euro emergency call: 112

Whether an experienced hiker or an enthusiastic beginner, whether a short mountain tour or a long hike - certain rules of conduct apply to all mountain lovers equally. With a responsible attitude and due respect for nature, one can never go wrong. The "golden" mountain rules are as follows:

• Be honest with yourself and never overestimate your own abilities in terms of fitness, surefootedness, endurance, and strength reserves. A tour that takes 6 hours or more requires physical resources. Fatigue and exhaustion can lead to difficulties in concentration. This in turn favors small mistakes or weaknesses in movement.
• Start your mountain tour only if you feel physically healthy and fit. Otherwise, you should postpone your plans for a few days.
• In case of strong signs of fatigue or the feeling "not being able to make it anymore," one should return to the valley as quickly as possible, even if the summit is not far away. Respecting your own limits is not a shame!
• If you are in a group, adjust walking pace and level of difficulty to the needs of the weaker group members.
• Dispose of garbage and waste properly or take the litter back down to the valley.
• Behave respectfully towards nature and its inhabitants.
• Inform friends or your hosts how long you plan to stay in the mountains and where your planned tour will lead.
• Weather warnings and reports should always be taken seriously. In the high mountains, the principle applies: favorable weather forecasts should never be overestimated, and poor forecasts should never be underestimated.

A tip from mountain guide Hias