In case of emergency

1. Before you start, announce the hut that you want to reach about your trail and get to know the locations along the way where there is mobile phone reception in case of emergency;

2. You do not have absolute control over all the variables on the mountain, but it is very useful that, apart from the compulsory first aid kit, you should also carry a whistle for acoustic signals and anything that can be used for visual signals (flashlight, mirror or any other object that reflects light: aluminium foil survival blanket, a canned tin, reflective surface compass, reflective vest, etc.);

3. Provide first aid (if you have special training and know first aid measures) and keep the person away from dangers and find shelter (maintain their body temperature);

4.  If you fail or do not know how to help, look for a place where there is mobile phone reception and call the emergency number - 112.

First, observe all the essential details that precede the call:

- location with clear landmarks (trail marking, starting place, name of the location where you are)

- if you own a GPS, make sure the operator has correctly mapped the coordinates

- nature of the emergency: injury, open wound, time of injury, etc.

- the number of injured people and their status

- emergency equipment and any kind of treatment provided (see point b)

- personal data: name, age, number of participants

- a few contact numbers in case one of them stops working or the phone runs out of battery

- particularities (if any): green jacket, reflective backpack cover, etc.

5.  If you are not able to contact the emergency number (112), head to an area where there is mobile phone reception, but keep the injured person/people under observation and provide shelter;

6.  Once you have established contact (see point d), guide the rescuers using acoustic and visual signals. A first aid course will teach you exactly what is necessary:

- the international emergency signal in the mountains consists of 6 acoustic or visual signals per minute (every 10 seconds), followed by a one-minute break;

- the response consists of 3 acoustic or visual signals per minute (every 20 seconds), followed by a one-minute break;

- use the whistle, the flashlight or other acoustic signals (b)

- use visual signals: wave bright and colourful accessories in the most visible places;

- if it gets dark and you are waiting for rescuers, light several torches, use powerful head torches, etc.

7.  Patiently wait and trust the rescue team and communicate being calm and respectful;

8.  In case of viper bite, dont't panic, search for an area where you have signal for your phone and call 112, clean the wound with water and apply an elastic bandage above the wound, not directly on it. The bandage has the role to decrease the blood flow to vital organs. The beaten area must be kept lower than the rest of the body, if possible.

Hydrate yourself consistently to diminish the effects of the venom and wait for the arrival of the emergency team.