Take Extreme Care During Severe Weather

30 September 2010 –

New Zealand Mountain Safety Council - Media Release

Trampers Strongly Advised To Take Extreme Care During Severe Weather Period

Following the severe weather warning issued by MetService today, New Zealand Mountain Safety Council strongly recommends that trampers and other bush users follow the Outdoor Safety Code and be aware of weather conditions at all times. This means monitoring the weather before and during their trip, and watch and respond to changing weather conditions during the trip. Careful consideration is required before going into the outdoors during this period.

Mountain Safety Council Outdoor Leader/Bush Programme Manager Chris Tews says the forecast period of heavy rain in most areas of the country today will make outdoor conditions treacherous. “Even experienced outdoor enthusiasts can strike problems in the outdoors. We strongly recommend people defer any trip into the outdoors in the worst affected areas until weather conditions have improved,” he said.

Given this forecast, the Mountain Safety Council’s particular concern is people attempting to cross swollen streams and rivers. “In the affected areas, streams and rivers are forecast to rise quickly and surface flooding and slips are possible following this period of heavy rain.

“You should never cross a flooded or fast-flowing river or stream. If in doubt, stay out. Trampers, in particular, have lost their lives in the past after being swept away when attempting to cross swollen rivers.

“The best plan when faced with poor, or deteriorating, weather conditions or a swollen stream or river is to camp an extra night or two and wait until the weather or the water level improves. Trampers are advised to be prepared and take sufficient supplies, such as a means of shelter and extra food for an overnight stay. Trampers are also advised to carry a communications device such as mountain radio or personal locator beacon and any other equipment appropriate to the terrain and conditions.

For more information on staying safe in the outdoors visit www.outdoorsafetycode.co.nz, www.mountainsafety.org.nz or contact your local Mountain Safety Council branch or tramping club.

The Outdoor Safety Code for Trampers

1. Plan your trip
Seek local knowledge and plan the route you will take and the amount of time you can reasonably expect it to take.

• Check track and hut conditions: Check with DOC, locals tramping clubs, Regional Authorities or District Councils.

• Plan for Emergencies
When things go wrong, use the STAR Model for making Decisions:
• STOP: Take a breath, sit down and remain calm
• THINK: Look around you, listen, brainstorm ideas
• ASSESS: Evaluate the options and their potential consequences
• RESPOND: Take the best alternative.

2. Tell someone
Tell someone your plans and leave a date for when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned.

• Leave your Intentions Form with a responsible person with:
• The route you intend to take
• Bad weather alternative route
• The party details - names, experience, local knowledge
• Time of return
3. Be aware of the weather
New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the forecast and expect weather changes.

• Monitor the weather forecast in the days before you leave
• Watch and respond to weather conditions during the trip
4. Know your limits
Challenge yourself within your physical limits and experience.

Beware of rivers - "If in doubt, STAY OUT"
• Know when, where and the how to cross
• Attend a River Safety Course
5. Take sufficient supplies
Make sure you have enough food, clothing, equipment and emergency rations for the worst case scenario. Take an appropriate means of communication

• Take navigation equipment and know how to use it
• Take a personal first aid kit and know how to use it.
• You should not expect good mobile phone coverage in remote areas. For emergency communications, consider purchasing or hiring a 406MHz distress beacon. For information on where to buy, rent or register your 406MHz beacon, visit www.beacons.org.nz
-Mountain radios can be hired for two-way communications. Visit www.mountainradio.co.nz

For more information about how to prepare for your outdoor experience visit www.outdoorsafetycode.co.nz

ENDS

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