North Wales rescuers urge walkers to plan ahead this winter
North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) has issued a reminder for people heading into the hills to plan ahead as the clocks go back and daylight hours shorten.
The appeal comes on Mountain Rescue Awareness Day, which this year falls on Sunday 26 October, the same day the clocks are turned back an hour.
Mold based NEWSAR, one of nine teams within the North Wales Mountain Rescue Association (NWMRA), is made up entirely of volunteers who give their time to help those in difficulty across some of the UK’s most challenging terrain.
Together, the teams respond to hundreds of incidents each year in areas that attract thousands of visitors.
A NEWSAR spokesperson said that as winter approaches, preparation is key to staying safe outdoors. The team’s advice includes starting walks earlier, planning routes carefully and carrying essentials such as a head torch, extra layers, food, drink and a phone power bank.
Walkers are also urged to check the weather at both the base and summit, and to be ready to turn back if conditions worsen.
Anyone who needs help should call 999 and ask for the police, who will contact mountain rescue. NEWSAR reminded people that its members are volunteers who may be called from work, home or personal activities, so it can take time to reach those in need.
“Setting out earlier and packing smart can make all the difference,” the team said. “It could save a call-out to an already busy rescue team.”
More information on mountain safety and how to support local rescue teams is available at nwmra.org/media.
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