MOUNTAIN LEADER
RESOURCES
BITS AND BOBS YOU MIGHT FIND USEFUL
This is a page full of helpful information to support you to gain your Mountain Leader Award. Do pop back regularly as we add new information and interesting links we find.
NAVIGATION - THE FIVE D'S
DANGER
After interpreting the map correctly and identifying and hazards, you can then choose an appropriate strategy
DIRECTION
Set your map and / or take a compass bearing (guess the angle first) - these two should point you in the same direction
description
Interpret the map to identify what you will pass and tick off on route
distance
Measure the distance between the two points
DURATION
Use time or pacings
Try to avoid navigation without building in a back up;
for example guess the bearing between two points prior to using compass
Use of the 5 D's is very relevant in bad visibility, but obviously in good vis, you may not need to use them all,
pick and choose appropriate techniques when you require them.
Have a hierarchy of what you’re using to navigate by in the mountains, for example: contours, water features, man made features. Do not include crags / rocks in this hierarchy if you’re using an OS map!
HAZARDS OF STEEP GROUND
IDENTIFY THE HAZARD
complete a dynamic risk assessment - whats the risk and consequence?
either
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Verbally mention it / coach them through it
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Physically position yourself in a place to protect the group
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Offer psychical assistance (non-rope)
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and then
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Collect your group in a safe place
USING THE ROPE
When choosing an anchor consider the 3 S's
SIZE - Big is best
SOLID - It doesn't move / vibrate (visually check it, tap it and then kick it)
SHAPE - The rope doesn't "ride up it
If required select an appropriate rope system
DIRECT
(walkers weight goes directly to the anchor)
anchor must be big, bombproof and the rope moves around it easily. This is quick and efficient
INDIRECT
(walkers weight goes through you prior to the anchor)
WITH CONFIDENCE ROPING
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always be above them
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keep the rope tight
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feet across the slope is more effective than toes pointing down hill
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prepare to stop a slip with every step
“The anticipation of my ML assessment was worse
than an OFSTED inspection”
MYTHS, RUMOURS AND REALITY
Paul tells you some of his thoughts on assessment
CORE KIT FOR YOUR LEADER PACK
MOBILE PHONE
GROUP SHELTER
GPS
HEAD TORCH
