Last winter 110 people were rescued from the Snowdon and Ogwen areas alone. In a bid to reduce this figure, members of Mountainsafe* are reminding everyone to ensure that they are fully prepared before venturing out.

"It is imperative that experienced and would be walkers take appropriate clothing and equipment and consider the hazardous conditions they may encounter before setting out," said Detective Inspector Gerwyn Lloyd of North Wales Police.

"Weather in the mountains can change dramatically in a short space of time and it is essential that walkers are prepared for every eventuality."

Dion Jones works for the Snowdonia National Park Authority. He said: "The national park has some of the most beautiful scenery in the country and this, combined with the ease of access to our mountains, provides a great attraction to those who enjoy outdoor recreation.

"However, too many hill walkers venture out without the proper clothing and equipment. All should have maps and compasses and know how to use them. In snow and icy conditions an ice axe and crampons should be carried and individuals should know how to use them."

From data collected, it is men between 21 and 30 years old that are most likely to need assistance with many of the accidents having happened due to a slip or a stumble late in the day.

Mountain rescue teams are on hand to help but should only be called on in an emergency.

In a bid to assist people to go out walking safely the Mountain safe members are issuing guidance and hold free navigation courses at the National Mountain Centre in Plas y Brenin. Yet another day-long course will be held this Saturday, October 27 with the specific aim of improving navigation skills and raise awareness of the possible dangers to those interested in walking and climbing.

Follow these important guidelines and be safe this winter:

• Plan your walk properly. Make sure that you tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to be back.
• Make sure that you have the proper equipment and know how to use it!
• Be prepared to turn back if the weather gets worse.
• Seek advice from experienced mountaineers and take advantage of the Met Office - Mountain Weather Wales Forecast available online at: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/loutdoor/mountainsafety/snowdonia.html
• If you are an inexperienced walker or just want to make the best use of your time then consider using a qualified mountain guide or instructor or attend a training course.
• Do not underestimate the mountains of Snowdonia and overestimate your own abilities.

REMEMBER

· Experience is no guarantee against failure. A high proportion of casualties considered themselves experienced mountain goers.

· Hill walking is high risk. Most accidents happen to hill walkers not climbers

· Slip at your peril. Most accidents are caused by a slip or trip which can result in a long fall.

· Preparation is paramount. There are few incidents which result from equipment failure or misuse.

· Mountains are merciless. The highest % of casualties are from the south of England

· Give Mountain Rescue Teams a Break - Don't get lost! A commonly cited contributory cause of mountain incidents is poor navigation.

· Plan properly. Over one third of all incidents result from poor planning which often results in the underestimation of time and the severity of terrain.

Enjoy the mountains safely and remember ‘Getting to the top is optional but getting back down is mandatory'!

Notes

*Mountainsafe is a joint initiative between North Wales Police, Snowdonia National Park Authority and the North Wales Mountain Rescue Association.