FOLLOWING an increased number of call-outs this week Donegal Mountain Rescue have issued advice on how to stay safe this festive season.
Donegal Mountain Rescue are a voluntary organisation and charity that provide an emergency response, remote environment and extreme terrain search and rescue 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.
With the severe weather conditions last week the team were very busy.
Speaking to the Donegal News, Public Relations Officer, Laura McFadden said two call-outs in the past week were due to the treacherous conditions on the roads.
“Two of our call-outs in the past week have been people who were stranded in their vehicles due to the back roads not being gritted. They became quite icy and almost impassable. We were tasked by An Garda Síochána to help get those people to safety.
“On Thursday evening we received reports of flashing lights on Muckish. Two separate people reported this. Due to the weather and the time of year the public become more concerned and want to make sure there is no one in need of assistance on the hill. An Garda Síochána tasked us to investigate to make sure no one was struggling,” she said.
With colder conditions predicted to return on December 25, Donegal Mountain Rescue have issued some advice to ensure everyone stays safe.
Laura said at this time of year, with the weather conditions being as cold as they are things do get trickier.
“We always advise people heading out to the hill to wear plenty of layers and have the correct clothing on. We advise waterproof coats, the correct hiking boots, gloves, hats, a head torch is imperative especially as it is getting darker much earlier, ample food, ample water and warm drinks.
“Another thing to be mindful of is that you have a fully charged mobile phone. The cold weather can affect the phone battery so making sure you’re leaving the house with a fully charged phone is a really good idea. If possible, bring a charger pack with you as well should your phone battery go down.
“Be prepared to be on the hill for longer than you expect your hike or walk to be. It can take us some time to get to you depending on the weather conditions, should you get into difficulty.
“It is all about being prepared and making sure you have everything you need should anything happen,” she said.
If you get into difficulty call 112 or 999 and ask for Donegal Mountain Rescue.
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