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Stiwart Breese of Breese Adventures fears for the safety of walkers who tackle mountains in the winter

Shropshire Mountain Leader - Winter Safety Fears

Author | 25 October 2013

A Shropshire mountain leader today urged walkers to realise the danger of the country’s highest peaks as they planned for the changing season.

Stiwart Breese of Breese Adventures said he feared for the safety of hundreds of people who tackled mountains such as Snowdon as the winter weather approached.

Mr Breese, originally from Wales and now runs his business from Newport said: “During the Summer I have witnessed and read about many incidents where people have had to be rescued during days out which could have been avoided if the right advice had been sought.

“Many people are going out into the mountains of the UK without seeking experienced advice on clothing and equipment which could save their lives in an emergency or in the event of changing weather.

Breese Adventures take small and large groups out into the mountains to celebrate special occasions or fundraise for charity. They provide experienced mountain guides all of whom are first aid qualified and have extensive knowledge of the mountainous regions of the UK.

The 42 year old said: “Our business is based on encouraging people to go outdoors and explore new areas but some people set themselves a challenge without realising the danger they may face.

“In regions such as Snowdonia and the Lake Districteven on a clear day the temperature at the top of the peaks can be 10 degrees lower than where you start and the weather can change dramatically over a couple of hours.

“All walkers going out into these regions should have a look at the equipment and kit list which is available on our website www.breeseadventures.co.uk, but there are some very basics which you shouldn’t even consider going without.

“If you are going without an experienced guide always make sure someone in your groupcarries a map and compass and hasa good knowledge of how to use them.

“A good pair of walking boots with ankle support is vital along with a set of waterproofs.

Referring to a number of rescues in recent weeks which have led to appeals from mountain rescue teams for walkers to carry torches the mountain leader said: “It is even more important to carry a torch with the days getting shorter in the event that you find yourself in difficulty and are still out in the hills as it starts to go dark.

“Even on the coldest day plenty of water is important as dehydration caused by the exertion of walking up hill over long distances can seriously affect your ability to get down safely.”

Mr Breese added: “We want everyone to be able to get outdoors and enjoy it but some excellent advice to consider when going into the mountains especially in the Winter,comes from the well-known Everest mountaineer Ed Viesturs‘ Getting to the top is optional, getting down is mandatory.”

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