Senseless damage on mountains could cost lives
19/11/2012
One of a series of grid-reference points on
Snowdon recognised nationally as a simple means of promoting
mountain safety and potentially saving lives has been inexplicably
and inexcusably damaged.
In June 2012 the initiative developed by the
Mountain-safe Partnership and implemented by the Snowdonia National
Park Authority received widespread praise from mountain users on
the social networking site Twitter and was featured on national
TV. Small grid-reference discs are already in place on many
of the stiles and gates on Snowdon and Cader Idris and have proved
popular with a full range of mountain users both experienced and
novice alike.
The idea behind placing grid references on footpath furniture
originally came from local mountain rescue teams. The markers
are placed on pre-existing stiles and gates so that temporarily
disoriented walkers who’ve brought a map and remember their
geography lessons, will easily be able to pinpoint their position.
It is hoped the markers would encourage walkers to polish up
on their map and compass skills as well as assisting those who
become disoriented to better direct any responding MRT.
Wardens at the SNP recently discovered the signs in Bwlch y Moch
near Crib Goch damaged and defaced and they believe this could have
taken place sometime over the last two months.
SNP Senior Warden Dewi Davies said “Damaging the signs on
Snowdon was an irresponsible and foolish act. The signage is
there for a purpose and reason – to aid navigation and orientation
therefore helping those who are lost and potentially in danger.
To damage them endangers the lives of others and I am very
disappointed 
with such selfish behaviour.”
If you have any information regarding this
incident North Wales Police can be contacted by phoning 101 or
alternatively by phoning Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
and quote reference N189887.