Stirling, 7th Jan 2025: The MSP for Stirling is reminding locals to check the latest advice before heading up Stirling’s mountains as snow and ice continues to cover much of the area’s hillside.
Icy temperatures and snow have swept across Stirling and wider Scotland for the last week with a series of amber and yellow weather warnings advising people to be extra careful when out and about.
With many tourists and locals venturing up the mountains in rural Stirling, organisations such as Scottish Mountain Rescue, Killin Mountain Rescue, Trossachs Search and Rescue and Police Scotland have been reminding the public about how to stay prepared this winter.
In 2023, Scottish Mountain Rescue reported that there were 319 “mountaineering” incidents, in which 387 people were assisted. 84 of the total incidents were due to being lost or experiencing navigation problems, while 116 were due to a fall.
Evelyn Tweed MSP for Stirling said: “Venturing up our local hills and mountains is undoubtedly one of the best things about living in rural Scotland and is a great remedy for our busy and often hectic lives, but we must also remember to be prepared as the mountain environment can change very quickly. The weather on the hills is often very different than at the roadside and does frequently catch people unawares. Navigating the hills can be much trickier when some of the usual landmarks and features are covered in snow, and with poor visibility and shorter daylights hours, having the right kit is essential. Always tell someone where you’re going, and never be afraid to turn back or change plans.
“Scottish Mountain Rescue have pulled together some very useful advice for their #Thinkwinter campaign highlighting key advice which I urge all climbers and walkers to check before heading out.
Head to https://mailchi.mp/glenmorelodge.org.uk/thinkwinter for advice to help you plan safe mountain adventures this season.
“If you do get into difficulty and need assistance, please call 999 and ask for Police Scotland, then ask for Mountain Rescue.”
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