South East Mountain Rescue escorted two walkers from ground above Coumshingaun Lake yesterday evening.
It was the first call-out of the year for the volunteer body.
According to its own Facebook page, South Eastern Mountain Rescue Association responded to a callout regarding two lost walkers in the Comeragh Mountains.
Walkers brought to safety by SEMRA
A call came in from An Garda Síochána shortly after 6pm, and a Garda unit was on site at Kilclooney Woods at 6.15pm. The walkers were reported to be cold and wet, and on steep ground above Coumshingaun Lake. SEMRA's incident command narrowed down their location.
Shortly before 7pm, SEMRA's first hill party started making its way to the casualty site, and the group was with the walkers just before 7.30pm. SEMRA members provided an initial assessment of the casualties, before escorting them down off of the hill with the assistance of further hill parties.
Technical heights equipment including ropes and harnesses were carried by the team but did not need to be used. Shortly after 8.30pm the walkers were back at their cars and all team members were safely off the hill.
SEMRA advice for hill walkers in winter
- Be prepared for changing weather and conditions if you decide to venture onto the hills in winter months.
- Time the trip to be down off of the hill before it gets dark.
- Carry and learn to use a compass and relevant map.
- Bring torches, warm and waterproof clothes, and wear suitable footwear.
- Keep a charged battery pack for phones.
- Storm shelters and or blizzard survival jackets can be invaluable to stay dry and warm in an emergency.
- If you get into difficulty on the hill please call 112 or 999.
More here on the latest WLR News.
Advertisement
