Why Mountain Rescue Callouts Are Rising

Why are mountain rescue teams seeing more callouts when the mountains themselves have not changed?

After Llanberis Mountain Rescue reported 59 incidents in August alone, Richard Prideaux, George Browne and Amy Green look at what is driving the increase.

They discuss changing attitudes to risk, the influence of social media, poor preparation, navigation, hypothermia and the small decisions that can turn a straightforward day in the hills into an emergency.

Richard also draws on his background in mountain leadership, outdoor safety and mountain rescue to explain why experience, judgement and self-reliance still matter, and why fitness alone is not enough.

The conversation also looks at the volunteers behind mountain and lowland search and rescue, preventative safety education, and the simple skills that can help people enjoy the outdoors more safely.

In this episode: Why mountain rescue callouts are rising Changing attitudes to risk and self-reliance Social media and outdoor expectations Hypothermia, navigation and fading daylight Why problems often start long before the emergency Mountain Leader training and qualified guides Mountain and lowland search and rescue Outdoor first aid and navigation skills How to support your local rescue team Links: Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team

Mountain Rescue England and Wales

AdventureSmart UK and Ireland

BMC hill walking skills and safety

Lowland Rescue

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Views are those of individual speakers and do not necessarily represent SideCountry, its presenters, contributors, partners or sponsors. For general information and entertainment only. Laws, seasons, access and guidance change; check official sources, obtain permission and act within your competence.