Lessons from Eryri
- Rhys Dobbs
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
This week at Reactive Medical, we had the privilege of running one of our favourite courses – the Mountain Safety Course, designed to help those new to the hills build confidence, develop essential skills, and most importantly, learn how to stay safe.
A Perfect Setting in North Wales
The course was based in the stunning surroundings of Eryri (Snowdonia). We couldn’t have asked for better conditions – blue skies, clear air, and a landscape that makes you both respect and fall in love with the mountains in equal measure. Eryri provided the perfect backdrop for new walkers to not only enjoy the beauty of the hills but also to appreciate the importance of preparation, planning, and safety.
What We Covered
Over the day, we explored a wide range of topics designed to give participants a strong foundation in mountain safety:
Navigation Skills – We looked at the fundamentals of map reading and compass use, as well as how to interpret the landscape itself. GPS and digital tools were also discussed, with an emphasis on using technology as a support rather than a crutch.
Emergency Shelters – Mountain weather can turn in minutes, and we demonstrated how emergency shelters can make the difference between comfort and crisis. Participants had the chance to set them up and understand when and how they should be deployed.
First Aid in the Outdoors – One of the most popular parts of the course, we covered how to deal with injuries, illnesses, and accidents in remote areas. From treating sprains and cuts to learning how to manage more serious incidents, the group got hands-on with practical scenarios.
Casualty Extrication – Finally, we explored techniques for moving an injured person to safety. In the hills, help can be hours away, and knowing how to improvise and work as a team can make all the difference.
Why Courses Like This Matter
The mountains are beautiful, but they demand respect. Every year, Mountain Rescue teams in Wales and across the UK respond to hundreds of incidents, many of which could have been prevented with better preparation and knowledge. Our aim with the Mountain Safety Course is not to take away the sense of adventure, but to equip people with the skills that keep them – and their friends – safe when they step into these environments.
By the end of the day, participants left not only with practical skills but with a greater sense of awareness and confidence in their abilities. For many, this is just the beginning of their mountain journey.
Join Us in October
If you missed this course, don’t worry – we’re running it again in October. Whether you’re completely new to the hills or you already have some experience but want to refresh your safety knowledge, this course is the perfect way to prepare for your adventures.
➡️ Book your place today via the link below – spaces are limited, and we’d love to see you there.
Comments