walkhighlands

Last chance for Winter Safety Evenings

Despite the ongoing mild weather, this winter has seen significant avalanches in the Cairngorms and a number of high profile accidents and rescues in the Scottish Highlands. With Spring just around the corner the Mountaineering Council of Scotland is urging walkers to grab the chance to attend one of the last Winter Safety Lectures.

The Mountain Cafe in Aviemore will host its last food and talk combination tonight (Weds 22 Feb) by Mark Chadwick (MIC). Mark has had a run of good conditions on his last few Alpine trips (the highlight being an ascent of the Eiger North Face) as well as some challenging weather out in India new routing. Mark’s lecture will help to bridge the gap between battles fought in the Scottish winter and how they help to prepare you for adventures to be had overseas.

Next week (Tues 28 Feb) the Clachaig in Glencoe will play host to Davy Gunn who will draw upon his life time’s experience in the Scottish mountains, in his lecture on Avalanche Awareness. Or more importantly… what causes them; ‘thinking traps’ that put you at risk; how to avoid being avalanched and reducing the consequences if you are caught in one.

The MCofS says, “The evenings are free, sociable, informative, fun, and could even save a life. What’s more, that life could be yours or someone very close to you.”

The aim of the evenings is to entertain and educate, MCofS Mountain Safety Adviser, Heather Morning, said: “The MCofS winter safety lectures have something to offer everyone who enjoys the Scottish mountains in winter. Whether you are a seasoned mountaineer or heading to the mountains for the first time, you are guaranteed to pick up some useful ‘top tips’ from the experts.”

MCofS Chief Officer David Gibson said: “Winter mountains have much to offer in terms of physical challenge, superb views and memorable experiences. However, the margin for error is much less than at other times of the year due to the weather, conditions underfoot and limited daylight hours. These lectures could save lives by enabling you to learn from others’ experience and gain an understanding of the skills and equipment you need to be more self-reliant.”

For more information about venues and times see the MCofS website.

Enjoyed this article or find Walkhighlands useful?

Please consider setting up a direct debit donation to support the continued maintenance and updates to Walkhighlands.




Share on 

Share  

You should always carry a backup means of navigation and not rely on a single phone, app or map. Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is every walker's responsibility to check it and to navigate safely.