The day started with a speed hike to a wind shelter were I enjoyed a cup of coffee and a cinnamon bun in the light of the bonfire. I looked out on the ice and stared to reflect over the topic of risk within the mountain environment and mountain activities. So that will be the topic of my 890th blog.

So to start with, let’s take a look at what causes risks to arise in mountain environments. So it all start with – You the human. We will take risks in the mountains in a combination of the pursuit of adventure and close-to-nature experiences, but also by underestimating the rapidly changing and demanding nature of the mountains. This in combination with lack of experience and/or knowledge of the area you are in.  This is why it is so important to understand how risks arise. Here you can see  the wind Chill effect, the red line show where to be attentive.

The weather report at the morning inform you that the wind will increasing during the day, and it will be cloudy. As you have a booking at a hut, and the weather is fine right now, you decide to head for the cabin. After just a hour the wind start to increase and rapidly. What to do now? Question one – how far is it to the hut? What direction does the wind got? How cold is it, does the wind chill effect will cause me trouble? Can you recognize the situation? Here´s the difference between a experienced mountain person and a less experienced one. This questions above has a experienced mountaineerer already planned for. The keys here will be the knowledge/experience and the planning. The next key will be the ”know how” and understand the equipment to bring, related to the activity you are going to do. So having the right clothing, spare equipment and safety equipment. The fourth key will be the common sense. The risks range from weather changes and avalanches to getting lost, and understanding these factors is central to mountain safety, that is what common sense is all about.

So how to conclude todays blog? There are four major key to take into consideration due to risk; Knowledge, planning, equipment and common sense. Extreme weather-unfamiliarity and stress, terrain and wrong equipment in combination with lack of knowledge are factors that increase risk levels.

Listen and enjoy this….

Moonica Mac – Dalarna – Idrottsgalan 2022

See ya soon…