Team training this month took place alongside our current base at Torridon Youth Hostel. 9am saw the anticipated arrival of a Helicopter on site ready for training new members in particular how to approach, board and leave the helicopter. We also practiced how to manage a stretcher being winched onboard. Training Officer Duncan’s initial plan was then for the helicopter to drop us off on the hill, so we could practice snow anchors and train further with transceiver equipment. However, snow flurries began to fall and the cloud level lowered, meaning that the Helicopter and its crew needed to head back to base. Kenny, Nicola and Alasdair had attended an Avalanche Training Course at Glenmore Lodge the previous weekend. They put their developed skills in to practice and instructed the rest of the team to carry out a series of exercises in ensuring avalanche gear was correctly stored, assembled and utilised. The team practiced setting off a series of flares and smoke canisters. Rocket Ron, living up to his name, was particularly keen on practicing this. Members of the team reiterated how and when these signalling devices should be used. Trainees practiced further with assembling the stretcher, in order to ensure it could be assembled quickly when required. Throughout the day we had an experienced cameraman, Jack Marris of Applecross Studio & Gallery, using a drone to record our movements through video footage. It is anticipated that this footage will be used to demonstrate the team skills in a promotional video. After a day practicing a range of skills, the team then headed back in to base and made preparations for an early celebration of Burns Night.

by Nicola Jackson

In 2006 myself and team mate Andrew Johnston were asked to attend ICE-SAR in Iceland.  During our visit we were treated to some wonderful hospitality from our hosts which included getting to drive SuperJeeps on the glacier like a couple of stunt drivers in a James Bond movie.

We also met folk from mountain rescue teams from all over Northern Europe, Greenland and the United States. During the three day conference Andrew and I learned loads, some of which was put into practice quite quickly.  We’d both recommend attending ICE-SAR if you have the chance.

We’ve had a busy time so far this winter so maybe it is time to try and remember the fun side of mountain rescue too?  Below is a link to a movie I made of our visit, it was also used to promote ICE-SAR the following year, I hope you enjoy it.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzS4zTHA47X_aklwZ2R6cVJoTzQ/view?usp=sharing