scotland mountain climbing

[mirela]

im going to mountain climbing end of feburary, and i never done this before, people in our group arent very experienced either. we are going to Creag Meagaidh,1128GMT. i have bought heavy coat, ski pants, hiking boots,waterproof gloves and a normal hat. \an anyone has similar experience tell me anything else i need pay attention?
btw heard the news about the avalenche in scotland and 3 person dies, im a bit scared now actually....

[KARL]

Above all be aware of weather forecasts (tune into BBC 1 Scotland's forecast, at around 1850 daily except on Sundays, plus online sources. The weather at altitude can change at short notice and you lose roughly a degree (Celsius of course) in temperature for every 100m upward. Wind generally increases sharply with altitude. Your worst enemy will be any precipitation, and the wind-chill will be significant in stronger winds. Make sure your clothing is both wind- and waterproof as well as insulating. Try to ensure it fits in such a way that it does not drain inward resulting in the insulating layer being even slightly wet (including socks). A good piece of headgear that can cover the entire head, bar the face, and drain onto the outside of any jacket is advisable, but it should also be adjustable to allow ventilation if weather is less demanding. Well clothed you can do most things - but stay clear of snow-risk. During summer you need none of this and can get away with light clothing that is only fairly waterproof. All of this is common sense stuff assuming a walk as opposed to rock/ice climbs, climbing buffs would reel of other gear requirements plus manufacturer's names, etc.

[Lil O'lady]

Good advice there from Karl.
If you are not expwereinced in hill walking or mountain walking, a good way of keeping yourself safe is to accept that you are always more tired than you think you are: don't get caught out by taking on too big a cllimb or walk.

Also, keep mobile phone batteries charged up, always tell your hotel, hostel or campsite where you are going and when you expect to be back; note the emergency number for mountain rescue, which is 999 in UK - you will be asked 'which service do you require?' to which you should reply 'mountain rescue'.
You should always be aware of your approximate 6-figure position on an Ordnance Survey map, in case you need to give directions to recsuers.
Sorry to sound so gloomy Mirela, and I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time, but taking these precautions makes sense and makes your trip safer.
Check out this link which has some forums whetre you can ask more about equipment and conditions: http://www.munromagic.com/MountainInfo.cfm/30

[mirela]

it is a bit late to reply, but thought i should say thanks to all the replies. I had great time there, but didnt go on the mountain in the end tho.... our team, group of 9, only 2 in the end reached the top, and you are ture, the equipments are so essential! most of them couldnt carry on because of thier clothes got too wet:(
had great time drove around highland tho, will go back again for camping next month , may have to come back here to ask silly questions lol x