Safe Mountaineering in Tyrol
A study of the German Alpine Association has shown that three quarters of all accidents in the mountains are totally preventable. Therefore, we have provided some brief instructions here to tell you how you can make your hiking vacation in Galtür even safer.
According to the study, the most frequent cause of accidents is overestimation of one’s skills. This leads to carelessness and inadequate safeguards. Accidents resulting from a hiker’s inadequate physical fitness level also do not have to happen. External influences play a relatively minor role in accidents. Consequently, it is easy to keep the risk at an absolute minimum when you go on your hiking tours in Galtür.
Planning your hiking tour
- Do not make your plans at the last minute and take your time as you make them
- Define alternative routes
- Memorise the location of protective cabins/shelters
- Pay attention to the time it will take to complete the tour and schedule time reserves
- Take a closer look at any hazardous areas
- Always take your map on tours and use it
Alpine weather
- Get the latest reports and projections
- Remain up-to-date while you are on the hike (cabins, mountain guides, cell phone)
- Watch the weather throughout your tour
Equipment
- Take at least the basic equipment
- Add reserves to your equipment depending on the duration, difficulty and requirements of your tour
- Wear functional clothing & footwear
- Make sure you take enough to drink and eat
Techniques & physical fitness
- Be honest with yourself when you assess your own abilities (also in terms of secure walking & make sure you are not prone to altitude sickness)
- If you are hiking with a group, be mindful of other hikers and children
- Choose your tour carefully (elevation metres, length, level of difficulty)
- Drink plenty, preferably water
- Take sufficient breaks
- Choose a reasonable speed
- Make sure you always have a reserve of strength
Quit when you know it’s time
- In the event of imminent bad weather
- When you feel your strength decreasing
- If you are encountering unexpectedly difficult passages
- Ignore euphoric goals & peer pressure
- Allow yourself and others to have weak moments
These safety tips will help you avert most dangerous hikers encounter. Keeping a keen eye on the mountain is always advisable. Rocks may fall and please do pay special attention to slippery areas. Extensive safety training sessions are available at the alpine schools in Galtür.
Safety comes first on your hiking vacation in Tyrol. Click here to request a quote for rooms and vacation rentals in Galtür with no obligation to you.
