Correct behaviour in the mountains

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Essential advice:

• Protect nature.
• Take all your rubbish with you.
• Do not light fires.
• Do not pick flowers or plants.
• Do not disturb the animals and keep quiet.
• Check the difficulty of your hike in advance.
• Always stay on marked paths.
• Inform someone of your route and expected return time.
• When hiking with children, avoid exposed areas.
• If you are planning to stop or stay overnight at a mountain hut, check its opening hours beforehand.
• Plan regular drink breaks during your hikes.
• Check the weather forecast before starting your hike.
• Be aware that mountain weather can change quickly, and temperatures can drop rapidly.
• Turn back if thunderstorms threaten and avoid isolated trees, peaks and ridges.

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Essential Clothing and Equipment:

• Wear comfortable, waterproof, and lightweight hiking boots or shoes with non-slip soles.
• Use a waterproof rucksack to carry warm clothing, including extra layers.
• Pack your backpack with: plenty of water, food, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat for sun protection, a first-aid kit and a fully charged mobile phone.
• Carry a headlamp or torch, especially for longer tours or during winter.

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Emergency Procedures:

• In case of an accident, dial 112 and provide the following information:

• Where? The precise location of the accident.

• What? A description of what happened, including how and when.

• How many? The number of people or animals involved.

• What type? The nature of any injuries or medical emergencies.

• Who? your name, current location, and phone number.

Important: Phone network coverage is not available in all Alpine areas. If your phone has no reception, try switching it off and on again. Then, enter the European emergency number 112 instead of your PIN. Your phone should automatically connect to the strongest available network, allowing you to make an emergency call.

International Distress Signals:
Distress call: 6 audible (e.g., whistle blasts) or visual (e.g., flashes of light) signals per minute (one every 10 seconds), followed by a one-minute pause. Repeat this pattern.
Response to Distress Call: 3 audible or visual signals per minute (one every 20 seconds), followed by a one-minute pause. Repeat this pattern.