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Winter
Essentials for Hillwalkers and Mountaineers
Mountain Accidents
Every year statistics show that the most common cause of winter mountaineering
accidents is a simple slip. Many of the people injured are well equipped
and experienced, but are not adequately prepared for the conditions they
encounter. Although the mountains of Britain are small when compared to
the Alps or the Himalayas, they must be treated with respect - especially
in hard and icy winter conditions.
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Of all the equipment used by a winter mountaineer, an ice axe and crampons are the most important. Not only should you always take them with you when venturing on to snow covered terrain, you must also be able to use them expertly and confidently. As 50 per cent of fatalities in winter result from head injuries, the wearing of a helmet may give added protection. |
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| Use
of the Ice Axe An ice axe is the basic piece of equipment needed for moving on snow and ice. It can be used as an aid to balance, for support, for purchase when climbing, for digging and step cutting and as an emergency brake. The choice of axes available is enormous, but one of between 50-70cm is suitable for general mountaineering. Long axes are more suitable for walking; short axes for climbing. |
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Holding
the Axe
The axe should be carried in the uphill hand with the pick pointing backwards.
This allows it to be used for support and balance and is also the best
position should it be needed as an emergency brake.
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Self
Arrest The following method is based on the basic axe holding position as described above. |
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In the event of a slip, the adze of the axe is positioned under your shoulder so that the pick can be applied to the snow slope, with the axe shaft braced across your body (see diagram). Your feet should be raised so that your toes don't catch in the snow causing you to somersault. Only experience will allow you to judge the amount of pressure you need to apply to the pick: too little and you won't stop; too much and you risk losing the axe. For ice axe braking to be effective it must be practised regularly – until it becomes an automatic reaction. The need for this cannot be overstated. When practising, choose a slope with a safe run out and no protruding rocks. Avoid slopes over 40°, those which are icy or whose run out cannot be seen. Always wear a helmet when practising and cover the axe spike to prevent injury. |
Movement
on Snow Slopes
When ascending snow slopes choose a zig-zag route that links patches of
soft snow or areas of easier angle. Remember always to carry your axe
in your uphill hand and move methodically and rhythmically, avoiding spurts
and stops which lead to poor balance and instability.
As you place your feet use the edge of your boot sole to kick a small step to stand on. Using the edges of the boot is less' tiring then using the toes. It is essential that your boots are sturdy and have stiff soles: if you can flex the sole in your hands it's too soft for winter use.
Pay particular attention when changing direction, and try to plant the ice axe firmly in the snow for each step. Always have two points of contact with the snow slope - either both feet (when you move the axe) or one foot and the axe (as you take a step).
Use of
Crampons
When the snow becomes too steep or hard for step kicking, crampons should
be worn. These should be fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions
and must be the correct size and fit for your boots. Accidents frequently
occur as a direct result of crampons coming loose or falling off. Boots
for winter walking or mountaineering should have a stiff sole for correct
crampon fitting and step kicking.
When walking in crampons avoid baggy or loose trousers on which they can
snag, and beware of anything hanging down from your waist. Try to adopt
a gait that has the legs farther apart than normal, and again practise
using your crampons in a safe, controlled environment.
You should flex your ankles so that all of the downward points bite. Avoid stamping or dragging your feet. Instead develop the technique of placing them firmly and confidently with each step.
Key Points
to Remember
have the correct equipment for your day out and know how to use it
never venture where the snow lies without ice axe and crampons
be realistic about your experience and set your objectives accordingly
carry your ice axe in your hand - it's no good strapped to the back of
your rucksack
when on steep or icy ground consider wearing a helmet
know how to navigate and always leave details of your route with a responsible
person
remember - equipment is no substitute for practice and good judgement