How to act in winter during fog and in the mountains: tips from the State Emergency Service
Kyiv • UNN
The representative of the state emergency service provided recommendations on safety during winter fog for drivers and pedestrians. He also announced the rules of conduct in the mountains, where 18 tourists have already died this year.
Speaker of the state emergency service of Ukraine Oleksandr Khorunzhiy gave important recommendations for drivers, pedestrians and tourists during a briefing. In particular, he drew attention to the danger posed by winter fog, short daylight hours and difficult conditions in the mountains. This is reported by the correspondent UNN.
How to protect yourself in the dark and foggy period of the day
We warn drivers to be especially careful during fog. As a rule, this visibility is 200-500 meters. And in recent days there have already been cases of road accidents
According to him, in fog, you need to slow down, because poor visibility significantly complicates movement. Fog lights are also mandatory.
This helps drivers better see what's ahead and avoid dangerous situations.
Equally important rules apply to pedestrians.
"Crossing the road should take place exclusively at pedestrian crossings. We need to make sure that the driver has time to slow down," the speaker of the State Emergency Service added.
He also recalled the "Light Up" campaign, which calls for the use of reflective flickers. This will help make pedestrians more visible in the dark.
Danger in the mountains
Fog, snowfall, strong winds and inadequate preparation create serious risks for tourists in the Carpathians.
"I'll start with statistics: since the beginning of the year, mountain rescuers of the State Emergency Service have rescued 579 people, including 101 children. But, unfortunately, 18 people have already died," the Cornet said.
The main causes of accidents are the frivolity of tourists, overestimation of their own capabilities and neglect of the weather forecast.
"We need to carefully study the route and check the weather conditions before hiking. Tourists should also register their route using the number "101"," 112 "or in the application"Rescue in the mountains" or "rescue". This will allow rescuers to quickly find people in case of an emergency," the speaker of the State Emergency Service stressed.
How to proceed if lost
"The first thing is not to panic. You need to make up the details of your route: trails, streams, mountain streams can help if you move them down, because they will definitely lead to settlements," the cornet advised.
He also recommends calling "101" or "112". If you can't make a call to the rescuers the first time, change your location.
It is important to use the "rescue" or"Mountain Rescue" apps, because they work with geolocation.
"We do not recommend going to the mountains on your own, especially without proper physical training or equipment," he stressed.
What to take with you to the mountains in winter
Mountain travel requires serious preparation. Be sure to take it:
- trekking shoes;
- seasonal clothing and replacement set;
- backpack, raincoat, headlamp, hunting matches, travel shoe covers;
- charged phone (you can use two), power banks, navigation tools.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risks both on the road and in the mountains.