Climbing And Trekking Is Serious Stuff !

February 14, 2018

Trekking with safety gear — Image used for representation only

The increase in the number of deaths of mountaineers and trekkers in the city over the past few months has triggered a sense of anxiety among amateurs, enthusiasts and professionals on the greater need for precaution.

Professional trekkers have warned trekkers to make sure that they take appropriate safety measures while climbing, hiking, or going on adventure trails to prevent injury or risk to their lives. There are a number of challenge course options out there, so practicing your adventuring skills by completing one of these is strongly recommended before embarking on any substantial journeys.

Mishaps occur only when one ignores the locals or experts advise or at times, when adequate safety measures are not adopted. Straying from a regular trail can also turn potentially dangerous.

We at Pune365 spoke to professional climbers and trekkers, to understand how best your trek can be made both comfortable and safe…

“A big NO to Solo trips! Solo trips should be completely avoided, and one should go only as part of experienced groups,” says Onkar Oak, Lawyer.

Communicating with the locals to get an idea about the dangers on the trail is must. People should make sure they go with groups who are well versed in trekking.

Also, one should study the hill or fort that a person wishes to climb and check its difficulty levels. They should also decide whether they want to attempt the climb. There have been cases when the soil in unexplored terrains is loose and there are major chances of trekkers losing their grip, he adds.

Manish Hingorani, A Business head says, “Safety must be a priority, accidents have increased due to the lack of safety awareness among the trekkers.

Trekkers should be wearing proper gear, one should also carry an extra set of clothes. Sufficient Water is an essential that needs to be checked, before leaving for a trek. Keep yourself hydrated!

A lot of energy is used while trekking. A must check for adequate food and potable water should be done.

Understand the route thoroughly, research about the trekking group you’re going, and take valuable inputs from seasoned trekkers who have already been there. Inputs in terms of how accessible the place is, if help is available in case of an emergency, distance to the nearest police station or hospital and whether there are wild animals in the area are a must. Most Importantly, do not attempt to compete with anyone and just enjoy it at your own pace, he adds.

“It is important to be with certified trainers “says Dipti Sahani, Marketing Communications Professional

Understanding the roads carefully is important, also checking the weather forecast is a must. It will help you prepare yourself to brace the weather.

Keep your trekking essentials handy is critical which include your trekking gear, emergency kits and eatables. A pocket-torch or headlamp should be with you as it gets dark earlier on the mountains. If you don’t have enough source of light, you may lose your trail.

Trekking can be a truly rewarding experience if done with the right preparedness. One should also take care of your body to make sure that you don’t fall sick while trekking. Hope for the best, but stay prepared for the worst, as a trekking tour may throw unexpected challenges, Dipti adds.