IT IS hard to believe that a group of students from Liverpool John Moores University's mountaineering club set out for some of the most challenging terrain in North Wales in icy weather without the proper equipment. Rescuers who came to the climbers' aid after they became stranded were shocked to discover one of the party wearing wellington boots, another with trainers, and only one member carrying the right equipment and with experience of hill-walking. The group of novice mountaineers was eventually found huddled together in low cloud and rain after a six hour rescue operation. We see time and again how people underestimate nature at their peril. When they do, they not only put themselves at risk, but also the rescuers whose job it is to find them and bring them to safety. North Wales is blessed with some of the best terrain imaginable for would-be adventurers, but they need to act responsibly. The fact that so many do not is, of course, one of the reasons why mountain rescue teams exist, and why they are kept so busy throughout the year. Such rescue teams are nearly always set up as charities, relying entirely on donations to fund their operating costs, and staffed by volunteers. They do a magnificent and often dangerous job, but such a large-scale operation as was seen on Saturday is costly in terms of both manpower and resources. With a little forethought and common sense on the part of the climbers, it could have been avoided. Many people do become trapped or get into difficulties on mountains through no fault of their own. But when climbers set out on an expedition as if it's a pleasant stroll in the country - and dress accordingly - then it's right that the rescue teams, whose own lives are put at risk, point out their mistakes in the strongest possible terms. This time everyone got off the mountainside safe and well. But future hill walkers and climbers must heed this lesson and make sure they are properly equipped and prepared. Sadly, as we see all too often, the next group to foolishly trek into Snowdonia ill-prepared might not be so lucky. | 
