Team Equipment

The Search and Rescue equipment that the team use has vastly improved with new lighter stretchers, vacuum splints, Tetra & VHF radios.

MMRT are equipped for all types of emergencies in the mountains. This includes search operations, providing wilderness emergency medical first aid and transportation by stretcher from the mountains.

• In 2015, MMRT received a new VW Rockton Transporter which facilitates carrying six MMRT members and rigging equipment.
• In 2017, the team received, with the aid of the CLÁR grant and fundraising, a new Incident Command Vehicle to replace the ageing one. This has been purpose fitted to facilitate transport of team members and first response equipment as well as having the most up to date equipment for Search & Rescue Incident Command anywhere in the county. All of this has been achieved because of the commitment of the members that make up the team and the public who support and raise funds for the team.

Safety Advice for walking in the mountains of Mayo:

The west of Ireland offers some of the best mountain walks in Europe. A Mountain day in Mayo is unlike any other because of the unique blend of majestic old hills, splendid isolation, panoramic views of the ocean, lake, river and sky all coming together to form a unique environment.  With the exception of Croagh Patrick, there are almost no tracks on the mountains so those who would venture forth need to follow some simple rules. If you do then you are certain to have an unforgettable mountain day.

Do not undertake a walk which is beyond your level of competence. If you are fit enough but map lack map reading and navigational experience then the safest and most enjoyable thing to do is to use the services of a local experienced guide.

Things to know before you go hiking or hill-walking

• Be prepared
• Know your limits
• Consider your fitness and capabilities
• If hillwalking for the first time, seek advice from your medical practioneer first.

Weather

Mountain weather in the west of Ireland can change from bright sunshine to mist and rain in the course of a day, so be prepared, experienced and competent enough to finish your walk in poor visibility and/or darkness. This applies particularly if you are doing a long high level walk as conditions can change.

Route Planning

• Plan your route considering distance, height gain, day light hours available, nature of terrain, fitness of walkers, escape routes and weather forecast. (Use a Route Card)
• Leave details of your intended route and expected time of return with someone and let them know when you have returned.

Equipment

It is wise to pack for all four seasons when you venture onto the western mountains. The Atlantic weather conditions can change frequently in the course of a day. Temperatures can vary by as much as 7degrees between sea level and summit. It is also wise to assume that in an emergency, either yours or someone else's, may necessitate you spending a night out, so be prepared.

Whether you are walking with or without the services of a guide, your equipment should include:

• Rucksack
• Walking Boots
• Waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers
• A dry bag for spare clothes
• Layers which you can put on or take off as required, wool nylon and fleece are recommended. Not Cotton.
• Hats and Gloves. Spare Gloves are a good idea.
• Survival Bag (Bivvy bag).
• Food and Fluid, plus some to spare.
• Head torch and spare batteries.
• Mobile Phone, but remember there may not be coverage so don't depend on it. And a waterproof case
• Map
• Compass
• Whistle
• First Aid kit
• A Kishu shelter (2 or 4 person) It shields you from the weather.
• Spare food
• Specialised Gear for winter conditions