Man walking in the mountains in the rain.

All about mountain safety

With the right knowledge, your time in the mountains will be both safer and more enjoyable. Learn about avalanches, find out how to prevent injuries, or read about how to ford rivers safely during your hike. You’ll find all our related pages on mountain safety further down.

In the mountains, it’s essential to be prepared to think for yourself and take responsibility for your own safety. Remember that advanced equipment can never replace common sense, experience and knowledge.

You should always inform someone about your mountain plans, whether your hike is long or short. Tell a relative or friend your planned route, when you’re setting off, who is in your group, and what equipment you’re bringing – information that can be crucial for mountain rescue services if someone goes missing.

Guest books are available in mountain cabins and shelters, and you should sign in when you pass by. However, these entries are not checked unless someone is reported missing. Leaving a travel note is a way of showing consideration for both yourself and others.

Emergency phone

Emergency phones are available in all mountain cabins, with a few exceptions – see each cabin’s webpage for details. Some shelters along the trail system also have emergency phones, and these locations are marked on mountain maps.

The phone connects you directly to the police operations centre and mountain rescue services. You can use it to raise the alarm if something has happened. It’s also a good idea to call if you are delayed, so your relatives don’t worry. The police and rescue services can help pass on information, which may prevent unnecessary rescue operations. You can and should also use the phone to seek advice or share information.

Mountain rescue

Each police district that includes mountain areas has a mountain rescue organisation. It consists of police officers and experienced local residents – around 350 people in total.

Mountain rescue operations are not only about searching for missing skiers and hikers. Just as often, they assist with transporting people who have been injured or fallen ill.

Mountain rescue can be reached directly via the emergency phones located in many places in the mountains, or via a regular phone by calling 112.

We work in cooperation with the Swedish Mountain Safety Council (opens in new tab, in Swedish: Fjällsäkerhetsrådet) and recommend that you read their information before your trip, regardless of season or activity.

More about mountain safety

Map and compass

Along marked trails, you can hike without constantly checking your map or using a compass. However, you should always carry both. If you leave marked trails, a map becomes essential for planning your route, making good decisions along the way, and navigating correctly.

Mobile coverage in the mountains

In the mountains, you cannot rely on being able to use your mobile phone. This is due to the rugged terrain, long distances and limited network coverage. It’s a good idea to let friends and family know that you may be unreachable while enjoying your trip.

Wade safely

Along marked trails, there are usually bridges over larger waterways. If you hike in unmarked terrain, river crossings are one of the biggest risks. The force of moving water can make you lose your footing, and the icy water quickly cools your feet and legs.

Weather in the mountains

Weather in the mountains can change quickly and make your trip more challenging than expected. That’s why it’s important to stay up to date with the latest forecast. Here you’ll find the most recent information on snow conditions and water levels.