What to Do for Safe Winter Climbing?

Climbing itself is a challenging activity yet alone doing it during winter. With the cold and wet weather and the slippery surfaces the dangers multiply after every taken step. Regardless whether you are an experienced climber or a beginner you should know several tips and own a couple of things to ensure your safety in such a hostile environment.

• Check the weather forecast – find out what expects you in the chosen climbing area and prepare accordingly.

• Dress properly – buy and wear appropriate clothes, such as thermal jackets, a hat, gloves, insulated boots, etc. Also it’s recommended that you dress in layers and remove them when you feel warm during the climb.

• Prepare and use the right equipment – before setting off for the adventure, buy and check the condition of your equipment (boots, crampons, rope, ice axes, tents, head torches, maps, compass, etc.).

• Research the route – learn as much as you can about the area in which you want to climb, the weather conditions there, and possible dangers.

• Don’t climb alone – find a climbing partner, preferably someone experienced and familiar both with the activity, the equipment, and the area.

• Communicate clearly – in such a dangerous situation it’s of vital importance to be able to rely on your partner and communicate with them. If necessary, you can use phones, radios, walkie talkies, or even hand signals. Also let other people know where you are going.

• Eat and drink water – getting caught up in the climbing it is easy to forget to hydrate and eat something. It’s a good idea to prepare and carry enough water and protein or other energy snacks.

• Be aware of nature surroundings – keep an eye on the route and the nature around you. Observe the conditions and potential hazards (icefall, avalanche, etc.) and turn back if it becomes too dangerous.

• Know your limits and skills - in case things become too difficult and the weather conditions worsen, don’t push yourself. There is no shame in giving up when the dangers increase.

Surely one article cannot cover all the aspects and nuances of such a complex and challenging activity, but it’s a good start. Follow this list of tips and research more about them. Talking to other people who have already been doing this is a great way to learn more about it. Don’t push your limits, always put your and your partner’s safety first before the determination to climb to the top, and you will certainly enjoy the climb.