Planning a hike safely

In short: A good hike starts with planning: route, weather, equipment, breaks and a plan B. Especially in the mountains preparation decides safety.

In more detail: Most problems arise from overestimation, bad weather, time pressure or equipment failures.

In detail

• Route: Choose length, ascent and difficulty to suit fitness and experience. Rule of thumb about 300 metres of ascent per hour.
• Weather: Check the forecast, allow for afternoon thunderstorms in the mountains and start early (donner-und-blitz).
• Equipment: Sturdy hiking boots, layers, rain jacket, sun protection, map or offline app, head torch, first-aid kit.
• Provisions: At least 0.5 litres of water per hour, snacks with carbohydrates.
• Information: Tell someone your route and return time.
• Emergency: European emergency number 112, in the Alps mountain rescue; alpine distress signal: six signals per minute (erste-hilfe-grundlagen).