When to call
Call as soon as someone is injured, you are lost, blocked by weather or terrain, or you see someone in danger. It is better to ask for help early than late.
What to say on the phone
- Where you are: the area, trail, marking, landmarks; if you have an app, read out your GPS coordinates.
- What happened: the type of accident, the person's condition, whether they are conscious and breathing.
- How many you are and what gear you have.
- Leave a phone number they can call back.
Until help arrives
- Shelter the casualty from wind and cold; do not move them if you suspect a spinal injury.
- Save phone battery (airplane mode between calls, screen off).
- Stay put if injured or if fog has set in; make yourself visible (bright clothes, torch, whistle).
- International distress signal: 6 signals per minute, pause one minute, repeat.
Prevention is the best rescue
- Check the mountain weather and road status before you go.
- Take the right gear and read the safety guide.
- Start early, tell someone your route and expected return time, turn back if the weather worsens.
- Download the route and map offline — don't rely on signal on the ridge.