Safety in the mountains
Don't be a "fool in the mountains"
Even experienced mountaineers have a healthy respect for the mountains and take precautions when hiking in the Norwegian mountains. The mountains are undoubtedly beautiful, but can quickly become dangerous. You should therefore ensure that you have the training, experience, local knowledge and equipment required for the trip.
For example, before setting off on a trip, you should let others know what route you plan to follow and when you plan to arrive. Check the weather forecast - not just for where you're going, but also in the surrounding area - and Remember that conditions can change quickly. Plan what to do if visibility is poor, it gets dark or the weather continues to deteriorate. Is it best to turn around or is there a shorter route, for example? Do I have enough clothes if the weather turns cold or it starts to rain?
If you're going on a hike in an area you don't know, you should always carry a map and compass, and a cell phone. There are many places in the mountains that don't have cell phone coverage, but you may get lucky when you need it most, so don't leave it at home. But Remember says that a map and compass are also essential.
Follow trails that are well marked on the map and follow the advice given on signs and information boards along the way. Keep an eye out for stone cairns if you get lost in the mountains. Cairns are often found near well-established trails and are set up at a short distance from each other so that you can see the next cairn in line from each one. DNT has good tips on how long you should calculate per kilometer in the mountains.
Bring a torch, hat, mittens and an extra set of warm clothes on all longer hikes. Also note the times of daylight. Reflective vests can also be a good idea. It takes up little space and makes you easier to find in the unlikely event that you need outside help.
Naudtelefonar
110 - Fire
112 - Police
113 - Medical emergency phone
120 - Assistance at sea
22 59 13 00 - Poison information
1412 TDD (text phone for the deaf and hard of hearing)
Trackless travel
For the sake of nature and others traveling in the mountains, it is important that everyone remembers the principle of trackless travel. Here you will find tips for trackless traffic when you are out on a trip.
Winter Adventures
Many of the precautions you should take in summer also apply to winter, but to an even greater extent. When it's cold, it's even more important that you dress in layers of wool, that you don't get wet, and that you have windproof outerwear.
Stay warm and dry, and get enough to drink
Hypothermia is your biggest problem in winter, and the best thing you can do to avoid it is to stay dry and have enough warm clothing. If you have to spend the night off-road, make sure you conserve your energy so that you have enough reserves to dig into the snow or build shelter from the wind.
If you have to lie down, make sure you insulate yourself from the ground or snow so that you don't lose too much body heat. Skis are good for this, although they are not particularly comfortable to lie on. A large backpack can also be used as a makeshift sleeping bag, and even a small backpack will keep your legs warm and dry.
If you get thirsty, don't be afraid to eat snow, as long as it looks clean and untouched. It will cool you down a bit, but dehydration will usually be a more serious problem than hypothermia.
Protect your eyesight
Even though it may be the middle of winter, you should take a pair of good sunglasses with you. The sun reflected from the snow can be strong and can make you snow-blind in extreme cases.
Show where you are and that you need help
If you have to camp or dig into the snow, set up your skis crosswise to make it easier for the rescue team to see where you are from a distance.
Varsom.no
Avalanche warning
Avoid avalanches
Avoid walking on or under overhangs or other places prone to avalanches, especially if you see avalanches in the vicinity. Avalanches are much faster than you are, so it's best to avoid them. Remember Checking the avalanche forecast before setting out on a trip and use avalanche equipment. You can now download the Varsom app in the App Store and Google Play. The app contains the avalanche forecast and a steepness map with an outlet that makes it possible to plan a trip outside avalanche terrain. It is recommended that you use a certified guide when you go on a summit tour.
New in 2017: Use the Regobs app to report local landslide conditions.
Summer
Even if it's warm and sunny in the summer, the weather can suddenly change, and you should have planned what clothes you wear and carry in your backpack. Make sure you're protected from the sun and are prepared for weather changes.
Dress warmly
A windproof jacket is a must, as is wool underwear, even on hot summer days. The wind in the mountains can be quite cold, and even wet wool will insulate and keep you warm, an ability it does not share with, for example, cotton or nylon. Dress in layers so that you can adjust the temperature by taking garments on or off.
Drink enough water
If you get lost, save your energy and Remember drink enough. Sun, wind and strenuous physical activity can make you dehydrated, even if you don't feel thirsty. Most running water in the Norwegian mountains can be drunk, but avoid water that runs through grazing areas or from glaciers, as this can contain harmful microorganisms.
Search downwards in the terrain
If you need to seek help, move towards lower terrain where buildings are more common. Follow streams and rivers if you can: Buildings are often found on river banks and in valleys.
On glaciers
Never walk on a glacier alone, even if you are used to the mountains. If you want to try glacier hiking, go in rope teams and with a qualified glacier guide.
Source: VisitNorway
Mountain safety rules
Even experienced mountain people have a healthy respect for the vagaries of the mountains and take precautions when hiking in the Norwegian mountains.
Plan your trip and let us know where you're going.
Customize your trip according to ability and conditions.
Pay attention to weather and avalanche warnings.
Be prepared for bad weather and cold, even on short trips.
Bring the necessary equipment to help yourself and others.
Make safe road choices. Recognize avalanche-prone terrain and unsafe ice.
Use a map and compass. Always know where you are.
Turn in time, there's no shame in turning back.
Save your energy and seek shelter if necessary.