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Accidents can happen to even experienced hikers in the mountains, and we are convinced of this almost every day by TV news reports. If something bad happens to you during the hike, you need to keep a cool head and follow the recommendations of the Mountain Rescue Service. Read on for a short list of hints and tips to keep in mind before you head out into the field.
1. Plan your route carefully
You should know the route - have it downloaded on your mobile even in offline mode, or take it printed with you. Find out if you can quit at any time and return the same way. Adapt the pace to the weakest member of the group and plan the route according to your abilities.
2. Have enough water
Find out if it is possible to eat and drink along the way and adjust the amount of water and food you take with you accordingly. Do not rely on wells, as they can dry up in the summer.
3. Pack everything you need correctly
Instead of carrying a large load of food, it is more practical to carry energy-dense foods such as nuts, protein bars, and dried meat. Pack lightly, but carefully and be sure to take: a waterproof jacket, a spare functional t-shirt, and socks, something warmer just in case, a cap, a first aid kit, medications that you take regularly, isothermal foil, cream with a high SPF, sunglasses, a headlamp, knife, repellent, personal documents, cash and a charged mobile phone (or power bank with cable).
4. Wear the right shoes
Don't underestimate suitable footwear even when it comes to summer hiking. Waterproof ankle hiking boots, or at least sturdy hiking sneakers with a tractor sole, should be a matter of course. You should forget about classic sneakers for the gym or the city, as well as ankle socks.
5. Mobile in flight mode
If you're not using your phone at the moment, put it in flight mode - this will save battery, which you may still need.
6. Mobile applications
HZS (Mountain Rescue Service) - in addition to current weather forecasts, the possibility of sending a message even in case of a bad signal or mapy.cz - here you can see the terrain and routes well.
7. Important numbers in the mobile phone
112: European emergency phone number that you can call even without a SIM card.
18 300: Mountain rescue service
18 155: Air rescue service
8. Insurance
It is reasonable to take into account accidents during a hike in advance and be insured. The insurance should also cover the intervention of the mountain rescue service. Without insurance, such an intervention can cost you tens of thousands of euros!
9. Check the weather for the entire stay in the mountains
If there is a threat of a change in weather, it is better to postpone the hike to another day.
