Three Peaks Challenge team help stranded hikers on Snowdon
The Castle Green Homes team, who were preparing for the Three Peaks Challenge to raise funds for Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue, encountered three stranded walkers during their descent.
The challenge, set to take place on June 26, will also support Chasing the Stigma and Prostate Cancer UK.
Richard Williams, operations director at Castle Green Homes, said: "We'd passed three young women not far from the top and had walked about two and a half miles down when we looked back and couldn't see any torches or anyone coming down after us.
"We made a decision as a group to turn back and find them.
"They had no torches, one of them had a twisted ankle, they were lost, didn't have any water and didn't know what to do.
"We took our time walking them back down and to help make them feel comfortable with us we phoned my wife.
"I would be devastated to think something had happened to my daughter and no one helped them.
"God knows what would have happened – they could have taken a wrong path over the edge."
Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue, one of the challenge's chosen charities, is familiar with such incidents.
The team of around 50 unpaid volunteers responded to 178 requests for help last year—almost one every other day.
Chris Lloyd, press officer for Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue, said: "We all go out to enjoy the great outdoors not intending to have an accident.
"But accidents can happen to anyone.
"It is important to reduce the risk of such an incident by proper preparation and knowing what to do in such an event.
"First, try and resolve the situation by yourself.
"Lost?
"Try retracing steps to a known point.
"Stuck on steep ground?
"Shout, there may be someone close by who can help.
"Injured?
"Treat using your first aid kit.
"The person may well be able to walk off without needing rescue.
"However, if out of your comfort zone, dial 999, ask for the police and then mountain rescue.
"The team leader may well be able to locate your mobile telephone and to direct you to the correct path.
"It is easier for team members to assist able-bodied casualties rather than let them continue to have an accident and injury."
Mr Lloyd also advised on essential preparations for mountain walks.
READ MORE: European surgeons visit Ysbyty Gwynedd to learn robotic knee surgery techniques
He said: "Check the local weather forecast before you go out, and make sure that you have adequate clothing and spare clothing too, including waterproofs.
"Mountain weather can change very quickly.
"Know where you're going, make sure you have the right equipment and that the whole party have the right skills.
"Being able to navigate is important.
"Take a torch – don't use the one on your phone as it uses the battery and then you won't be able to call the rescue out."
To support the team's Three Peaks Challenge, visit https://gofund.me/8c9020aa.
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