A walker was rescued from Cuilcagh mountain by the North West Mountain Rescue Team (NWMRT) recently, after he slipped on a rock and sustained a fractured ankle.

The team of 20 volunteers who live and work in Fermanagh were tasked by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to an injured lone walker on Cuilcagh who had been discovered by a group of hikers around 5pm on January 22.

Whilst the man in his fifties escaped relatively unscathed and was off the mountain and taken to hospital within the hour, the NWMRT have become alarmed at the number of walkers on Cuilcagh who are wearing inappropriate clothing and are not carrying proper safety equipment.

“We were coming down off the mountain with the injured man at 5.15pm, it was the verge of dark and there were people walking down in light jackets and trainers with no torches - it’s madness,” said NWMRT western section leader David Sheridan.

“On a Sunday a few weeks ago we counted around 600 people who went up Cuilcagh. 

“The car park was packed and the cars were queued down the road. 

“It’s great to see people coming to walk Cuilcagh but it’s a wonder we haven’t been called out to more injuries. Walkers must be properly prepared,” he added.

A spokeswoman from NWMRT western section stated: “Coming from their recent callout to Cuilcagh Mountain Park, NWMRT feel the need to emphasise the importance of safety whilst heading to the hills, especially at this time of year as weather conditions can deteriorate very quickly. 

“The hills offer beauty, challenge and adventure but participants must be prepared with some basic equipment and knowledge in order to enjoy hill walking safely.”

According to the NWMRT, the following equipment is essential: a map and compass (and someone who knows how to use them); a waterproof note pad and pencil; a head or hand held torch with spare batteries; an appropriate sized rucksack; trekking poles {optional); and food and drink.

“A good breakfast will set you up for a day’s walk, and whilst out, consuming little and often is the best way to keep hydrated and maintain your energy,” the spokeswoman said.

“It is sensible to have some emergency food, like high energy bars, tucked out of the way, just in case. 

“Water will do the job perfectly well, although in cold weather a hot drink is likely to be very welcome.”

The following items of clothing should be worn: walking boots (no runners) and good warm socks; wicking, insulating layers and fleece (not cottons); walking trousers (no jeans); waterproof jacket and waterproof over trousers; hat, scarf/buff and some gloves; and gaiters.
Safety measures include bringing emergency food, spare gloves, spare socks, a whistle, a mobile phone, a first aid kit, a bivi bag, a group shelter and a torch.

“It is not uncommon for mountain rescue teams to be called to assist walkers off the hills who have simply got caught out after dark and have no torch.  

“A head torch is best, and many inexpensive models are widely available.  “Always take a torch and make sure you also have some spare batteries,” the spokeswoman emphasised.

If you find yourself in difficulty on the mountain, the NWMRT advise that you should make a note of all relevant details: location (grid reference if possible); name, gender and age of casualty; nature of injuries or emergency; number of people in the party; and your mobile phone number. Then dial 999 or 112 and ask for Police, then ask for mountain rescue.

“You must make sure you tell the operator that you require the Police, give all your prepared details of the incident, and do not change your position until contacted by the Rescue Team,” said the spokeswoman.
The NWMRT spokeswoman concluded: “We would like everybody to enjoy the mountains safely.

“Remember to adhere to the principles of leave no trace, take nothing away but photographs and leave nothing behind but footprints.”