A mountain rescue team in Wales has issued a warning to social media influencers, appealing to them to be more responsible when sharing images of dangerous climbs in Snowdonia. The Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team faced criticism after posting a video of a rescue from Crib Goch, a knife-edge ridge on Yr Wyddfa. Some people condemned the team for showing a casualty being “walked on a lead like a dog” as he was confidence-roped off the ridge, with detractors arguing that such videos could deter others from seeking help in the mountains. However, most climbers and walkers praised the team for highlighting how influencers may glamourize locations without acknowledging the risks fully.
The team received unprecedented emergency callouts last year, with three times the number of incidents from 15 years ago. By mid-September this year, callouts had already reached 246, with many incidents occurring on Yr Wyddfa, which attracts over 600,000 visitors annually. The team questioned influencers about the impact of their social media posts on people’s risk-taking behaviour in the mountains. Crib Goch’s challenging terrain is popular among thrill-seekers who share their adventures online, often omitting the dangers and tragedies associated with the area.
In a recent video, Llanberis MRT highlighted the risks involved in descending from Crib Goch’s east ridge with a casualty, emphasising the perilous terrain, harsh weather conditions, and challenging rope work required for a safe descent. The team posed three crucial questions to influencers documenting risky endeavors, sparking a balanced online discussion. Experienced hikers criticised influencers for enticing ill-prepared adventurers into hazardous environments, while others stressed the importance of personal responsibility.
Despite the majority of walkers and climbers being well-prepared, unforeseen incidents can still occur. Mountain rescue teams face challenges with limited resources and financial constraints, yet they continue to provide life-saving assistance. Some internet users expressed concerns about the portrayal of rescue operations in videos, questioning if such content could deter individuals from seeking help when needed. Additionally, there were debates about the responsibilities of both social media influencers and individuals accessing mountainous areas, highlighting the need for caution and preparedness.
As the debate continues, there is a call for non-experts to undergo proper mountain climbing training to enhance safety. The dedication of Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team’s volunteers, who work tirelessly throughout the year, underscores the importance of supporting their efforts through charitable donations and fundraising initiatives. The influence of social media on adventure-seeking behaviour and the responsibilities of influencers in promoting safety in outdoor pursuits remain pertinent topics amid increasing visitation to challenging mountain locations.
Through a series of strategic questions and observations raised in response to influencers depicting risky adventures in Snowdonia, the discussion has sparked wider dialogues on safety, preparedness, and the responsibilities of all individuals accessing mountainous regions. The intricate balance between promoting the beauty of natural landscapes and highlighting the associated risks underscores the need for collaborative efforts to ensure the well-being of all who venture into challenging terrains. As mountain rescue teams continue to provide vital assistance, the conversation around social media’s impact on outdoor pursuits is crucial in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among adventurers.