The Mountain Safety Code

One of the precursors to the Mountain Safety Code was published in 1934 when DNT released the handbook “To the Mountains on Skis,” which provided advice on using maps and compasses, clothing and first aid, and the dangers of the mountains.

The Mountain Safety Code was first published in 1950. Much has changed since then. We take different trips, have different equipment, and the knowledge among the population has changed. Today, summit tours in steep terrain are often referred to as the new “national sport.” When the Mountain Safety Code was created, hut-to-hut trips in the mountains were most common. Therefore, handling avalanche-prone terrain has become an essential topic in the new Mountain Safety Code. In addition, it is important to have Mountain Safety Rules that are understandable and current in both language and content.

Are you unsure how to use a map and compass? See more information in our compass guide here.

The Mountain Safety Code

1. Plan your trip and inform others where you are going
Plan the trip according to the group’s abilities, and always have several alternatives.

Ensure you have information about the area and the conditions you will be traveling in. Listen to experienced mountain travelers.

Ensure you have the knowledge and skills required for the particular trip.

Respect nature. With good planning, you will not leave traces behind.

Make arrangements independent of the need for mobile coverage and precise times.

Are the plans good enough that you will have a good trip regardless?

2. Adapt the trip to ability and conditions
Continuously assess the conditions and adjust your plans accordingly.

Respect the weather!

Being on a trip with others provides increased safety and someone to share the experiences with. If you are traveling alone, be extra cautious.

Do not set out on a long trip without experience; you must be able to take care of yourself and others in the group.

Show consideration for other hikers. Know the right of public access and the responsibilities that come with it.

Ensure that the hiking group has a culture of open and direct communication.

Can this trip be completed under these conditions with this group?

3. Heed weather and avalanche warnings
Always use weather and avalanche forecasts, and understand what they mean for you in the area where you will be traveling

Follow the advice associated with the relevant forecast, and choose simple terrain when conditions are demanding.

Trip forecasts can be found here: yr.no, storm.no, varsom.no.

Monitor the development of weather and avalanche conditions along the way. Does the trip plan need to be changed?

4. Be prepared for bad weather and cold, even on short trips
Dress according to weather and conditions.

Remember that the weather changes rapidly in the mountains. Bring both extra clothing and the equipment that the trip and terrain require.

Extra food and drink can help both you and others if you take longer than planned or have to wait for help.

Can you withstand a sudden weather change on your trip?

5. Bring necessary equipment to help yourself and others
On winter trips you need a wind sack, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, and shovel to manage a night outdoors. A wind sack can save lives.

Bring something, such as a reflective vest or headlamp, that makes you easier to find if an accident occurs.

Bring first aid equipment. This enables you to help both yourself and others.

Always use a transceiver, and bring a probe and shovel if you will be traveling in avalanche-prone terrain.

Pack smart! Packing lists for various trips can be found at ut.no/fjellvett.

A mobile phone can be a useful tool, but remember that you cannot rely on it in all situations or areas.

If an accident occurs, alert the police at 112, go for help, or try to alert others in another way.

Can you manage on your own and help others?

6. Make safe route choices. Recognize avalanche-prone terrain and unsafe ice
Conscious and good route choices are the most important factor in avoiding avalanches.

Know that avalanches can release on slopes higher than five meters and steeper than 30 degrees.

Even if it is flat where you are walking, you can trigger an avalanche on the mountainside above you.

An avalanche can travel three times as far as the height of the slope from which it is released.

Avoid terrain traps, such as narrow stream valleys. Think about what happens if an avalanche occurs.

Be aware of the danger of cornice collapse when walking on a mountain ridge.

Be aware of ice conditions when walking on regulated lakes and in inlet and outlet areas.

Could an avalanche occur where I plan to go? What are the consequences?

7. Use a map and compass. Always know where you are
Use a map and compass; they always work.

Follow the map even when walking on marked trails.

The hiking experience becomes richer if you follow the map along the way.

GPS and other electronic aids are useful, but remember to bring an extra power source.

Are you unsure how to use a map and compass? See more information in our compass guide here.

8. Turn back in time; there is no shame in turning around
Reassess the plan continuously, and choose plan B long before you become exhausted.

Have the conditions changed? Should you turn back?

Is anyone in the group having trouble completing the trip? Should the group turn back?

The journey is the destination! There will be another trip.

9. Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary
Adjust the pace to the weakest member of the group, and ensure that everyone in the hiking party is keeping up.

Remember to eat and drink often. When you exert yourself, your body needs more fluids than you feel the need for.

Do not wait to seek shelter until you are exhausted. You become more tired from strong wind.

Use the wind sack or dig into the snow in time.

Are you able to get back? Can you find shelter?