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©Dsc01114 Rt4

Mountain safety tips The essentials

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The mountain is a natural territory where protected species live side by side, in a natural environment that is sometimes unstable.
Throughout the year and the seasons, the mountains change: snow melts, glaciers evolve and rocks shift. Choosing the mountain experience also means knowing the risks, which is why before, during and after your trip, it’s essential to keep a few basic safety rules in mind.

Before you leave :

  • Choose your itinerary according to your ability
  • Check the weather forecast, and remember that mountain weather can change very quickly.
  • Make sure your equipment is adapted to your activity (good shoes, layering of clothing, backpack adapted to your walking objectives and to the amount of equipment you need).
  • Take something to eat (dried fruit, cereal bars, etc.) and drink (plenty of water).
  • Inform someone of your departure and itinerary, and avoid setting off alone.
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©Sainte Foy Tarentaise cow

To go with you

Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen
Sticks, flashlight and multi-purpose knife
IGN map
First aid kit
Camera

In the field best practices

  • Managing waste

    The mountains are also home to numerous species, some of which are protected or endangered. To avoid harming them, be careful not to leave garbage in the wild. Take your garbage with you and dispose of it in the appropriate garbage cans (compost, recycling bin or garbage bin). If you find other garbage accidentally left behind on your route, you can also pick it up.

  • Crossing herding dogs

    You may come across herding dogs on your hikes, particularly on alpine plateaus. As their name suggests, these protection dogs are there to protect the herds, so when you approach their protection zone, they may behave in a deterrent manner (barking or snoring). In such situations, we recommend that you :

    • Avoid the herd whenever possible;
    • Do not attempt to feed, pet or take a photo of a guard dog, sheep or lamb: dogs may interpret this as aggression;
    • Adopta calm, passive attitude towards the dog to reassure it, and don’t make any sudden gestures,
    • Get off your bike (for cyclists) and walk alongside;
    • Keep your dog on a leash (for dog owners) and don’t hug it;

    You can also consult the

  • In case of emergency

    The emergency number to know is 112. While waiting for help, protect the victim from imminent danger and cover him/her with a survival blanket. If possible, one person should remain by the injured person’s side to comfort him/her, and another to fetch help.

    Distress signals to know:

    – arms up in a V-shape, body in a Y-shape for yes.
    – arms outstretched, one up, the other down, body forms an N for no.