Donegal hikers are being urged to consider the dangers they are putting themselves and others in by setting out into the snow this week.
The warning comes after a late-night incident on Errigal, where a group of people decided to scale the mountain without telling anyone of their plans.
Emergency services and volunteers were called to action following reports of lights on the mountain after 11pm.
Dangerous road conditions hampered the Garda response from Letterkenny, Milford, and Falcarragh, while 16 mountain rescue team members were getting themselves prepared to travel on ice-covered roads to attend a possible casualty.
The team was stood down after midnight after learning the hikers were safe.
“Thankfully, none of our members had to battle the roads or brave the cold weather this time,” said a spokesperson for DMRT.
The incident has prompted volunteers to remind hikers of the real dangers of the current weather conditions and the risk they are putting emergency workers in by lack of communication.
“These are unusually dangerous conditions we are experiencing at the moment,” they said.
“We understand that our landscape, although beautiful all year round, can be particularly striking in the snow.
“Can we please ask that, even though we advise that you stay on lower ground and remain safe, if you do venture out, please contact your local Garda station to let them know where you are going, when you intend to leave and when you intend to return.
“This is essential to avoid an incident last night where the team are tasked late into the night for something that was so easily avoidable.”
For the next 72 hours, the Donegal Mountain Rescue Team Facebook messenger will be closely monitored to receive any messages from the public about potential excursions. Please note, however, that this Facebook page is NOT to be used in an emergency. If you need the services of DMRT, please call 999 or 112 and ask for mountain rescue.
They added: “Please stay safe as this cold snap continues. We wish for everyone to enjoy our hills at all times of the year, but please consider our emergency services and the volunteers involved and plan your excursion, should you wish to step out your door.”
