Safe in the Mountains
Because Every Decision Matters!
In emergencies, every second counts. Knowing basic first aid, carrying a complete emergency kit, and placing a proper emergency call can be life-saving.
Tip: Even if your phone has no signal, there may still be ways to place an emergency call.
Route Planning
Thorough and Realistic
Solid preparation is the foundation of mountain safety. Always consider the weather forecast, trail conditions, and both your own and your companions’ fitness level.
Start each hike slowly, especially on the first day, and plan regular breaks.
Weather Hazards
React Early
Mountain weather can change quickly. Use weather apps, local forecasts, or advice from locals to identify storms, rain, or strong winds in time.
In case of a thunderstorm: Avoid exposed peaks, ridges, trees, and metal cables – and take shelter in a safe posture.
Equipment & Appropriate Clothing
The essentials
Sturdy, high-cut hiking boots with good grip, weatherproof clothing, and layered thermal protection ("onion principle").
Always carry a fully charged mobile phone, emergency gear, and nutritious snacks (e.g. nuts, dried fruit, muesli).
Group Pace
and Communication
Adjust the hiking pace to the slowest group member. Watch out for signs of fatigue and communicate clearly when something is unclear.
Inform family, friends, or your accommodation about your route and expected return time – this helps if help is needed.
Marked Trails
and Orientation
tay on marked trails – shortcuts increase the risk of getting lost, falling, or triggering rockfalls.
Avoid steep or unstable terrain – especially when wet, snowy, or icy.
Avoid Rockfall
Do not loosen or dislodge rocks
Even small ones can cause serious damage.
Warn others and cross danger zones one at a time, quickly and without stopping.
Respect for Animals & Nature
Take your trash back with you
Keep the mountains clean and protect local flora and fauna.
Stay calm near grazing livestock: do not leave the path, maintain distance, and always keep dogs on a leash.
Emergency Behavior
Stay calm, administer first aid, and trigger the rescue chain
Never leave injured persons behind alone.
Use signals like lights, shouting, or bright clothing to attract attention if needed.
EU-wide emergency number 112
Local mountain rescue emergency number 140
You should bring sturdy hiking boots, weatherproof layered clothing, a rain jacket, plenty of water, energy snacks, a map or app, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone.
Check weather forecasts, assess the trail’s difficulty and elevation gain, consider the fitness level of all participants, and stick to marked routes. Include time for breaks.
Stay calm, seek shelter, avoid summits, ridges, or metal fixtures during thunderstorms, and turn back early if needed – safety is always the priority.
Call mountain rescue (e.g., emergency number 140 or 112), administer first aid, and signal your position. Do not leave injured persons alone if possible.
Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, avoid loud noises, keep your distance from wildlife, and keep dogs on a leash.
Walk carefully, avoid dislodging loose rocks, keep distance from other hikers in steep sections, and use trekking poles for added stability.