Hiking in the heat: Five tips for a safe mountain tour
Created: 08/08/2022, 14:06
By: Franziska Kaindl
When the sun is beating down, hikers should make special preparations.
© Imago
Good weather is a good prerequisite for a hike.
But what if a real heat wave is on its way?
We have tips for the mountain tour.
The sun is shining and promises good weather all day - for many the perfect opportunity to climb a mountain and enjoy nature to the fullest.
Hikers should also exercise caution, especially when it is very hot: the high temperatures put additional strain on the body and can lead to heat stroke or sunstroke.
The risk of thunderstorms also increases.
Tips for hiking in the heat
Good preparation is the be-all and end-all for any hike in the mountains, especially when the weather forecast is for high temperatures.
Many then ask themselves: What clothes should I have with me?
And how do I ensure that my body can withstand the strain?
In this case, the Alpine Club (DAV) has a few tips to ensure a safe mountain hike:
Start your mountain hike early - because the temperatures are still relatively pleasant in the morning, while around 2 p.m. the midday heat sets in.
By then you should have completed the most strenuous part of your tour.
It is best to avoid routes that run from the north or west to the destination.
This gives you a greater chance of shady sections.
Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and loose, airy clothing.
Especially in the mountains, this can be even stronger than usual due to the altitude. A hat and sunglasses are a must.
Speaking of clothing: your clothing should be functional and the material should help to wick away moisture.
A cotton shirt is therefore not the right one, as it does not dry as quickly.
Rather rely on synthetic material or merino wool.
Bring enough to drink or refill your bottle regularly along the way.
Water or isotonic drinks are best.
It is best not to wait for the feeling of thirst to set in, according to the DAV, according to a report by the German Press Agency.
Well taken care of on the go: This belongs in the first-aid kit
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In addition to having the right equipment, it is also important to keep an eye on the current weather forecast.
The weather can change more frequently, especially in the mountains - and instead of sitting in the sweltering heat, you're sitting directly under a warm thunderstorm.
In the event of an emergency, hikers should make an emergency call.
