Day Trippers Urged to Go Prepared After Recent Rescues
Media Release
NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is urging day walkers and trail runners venturing into the great outdoors this summer to go prepared. This follows several rescues this week, where people were caught out on day trips after being ill-equipped.
MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley is stressing the importance of planning ahead, no matter how long you expect the trip to take.
Whether you’re heading out for a few hours or a full day, you need to plan. Weather conditions can change quickly, especially in our national and regional parks, and accidents can happen to anyone at any time. A little preparation can make all the difference when it comes to keeping safe in the outdoors,– says Mike.
MSC is reminding all walkers and trail runners to carry essential gear, which includes a waterproof jacket, warm layers, plenty of water and food, and a way to call for help, such as a cellphone, personal locator beacon or satellite messenger device.
“If you’re relying on a cellphone for emergency communication, check coverage for the area before you leave and take a light-weight power bank to avoid running out of battery,” says Mike.
Recent incidents highlight the risks of going unprepared. A solo day tramper was rescued on Tuesday 19 November after becoming lost near Waikanae on the Kāpiti Coast. The man was wearing only light clothing and had no food or water when he lost his way. He was able to call for help before his phone went flat and was found by a Police dog team.
This was the second such incident in less than a week. On Saturday, it took rescuers six hours to reach a trail runner on Taranaki Maunga. The man was suffering hypothermia after being caught out when the weather turned.
“We want everyone to stay safe in the outdoors this summer,” says Mike. “Using Plan My Walk will help you get prepared for your adventures. It’s free and easy to use, and provides essential information, including recommended gear lists, weather forecasts and track alerts to ensure you are fully prepared."
When you are out on the track, it is vital to monitor the weather throughout the day and recognise if the conditions are changing, says Mike.
“Things don’t always go as planned, so before you leave, decide on some key places along the way where you’ll stop and reassess the situation, including the weather and how you’re doing. You may need to put your Plan B or exit plan into action.”
The NZ Land Safety Code provides a simple 5-point checklist to help you explore the great outdoors safely:
- Choose the right trip for you – learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather – it can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food – prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help – telling a trusted person your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your life.
- Take care of yourself and each other – eat, drink and rest, stick with your group, and make decisions together.
PHOTO CREDIT | Zhi Yap Yuen - Trail Runners on Scree Ridge