The tragic deaths of three hill walkers in a short, two-week period should impress on all those who enjoy the great outdoors the dangers that are ever present and the need for extreme caution.
The fact that those who lost their lives were experienced hill-walkers who knew the mountains well, makes the message all the more important. These were not badly equipped and inexperienced people blundering into dangerous situations without any idea of the risks being run. They knew the Kerry mountains and had enjoyed them for years. But, whether people take their pleasure on land or by sea, nature can be unforgiving when the least mistake is made.
The Macgillycuddy's Reeks, in County Kerry, provide some of the most spectacular scenery in the country and are deservedly popular with hill-walkers. They also include the highest mountain in Ireland, Carrauntoohil. And it was in this area that both accidents occurred, the first on St Stephen's Day, the second, last Sunday. Mr Warren O'Brien, an experienced climber, fell to his death just after Christmas while taking a difficult, snow-covered route with two colleagues up Carrauntoohil.
On Sunday, a group of four walkers, were traversing a ridge at Loughduff, south from Carrauntoohil, when underfoot conditions caused them to fall into a gully. One was able to go for help but Mr John Lucey and Ms Joan O'Leary died.
Their bodies were recovered with considerable difficulty yesterday by members of the Kerry Mountain Rescue team, who were assisted by an Irish Coastguard helicopter. On Sunday, members of the same team had diverted from the Devil's Ladder area, where they had gone to rescue a man with head injuries, to assist with the major accident. These people, who give voluntarily of their time and risk their lives in helping others, are the unsung heroes of the Irish mountains.
Precaution and care should be the watchwords of the mountains. Good quality equipment and proper, all-weather gear will automatically make outdoor pursuits safer and more enjoyable. But even a slight human error can sometimes lead to tragedy. Thankfully, such circumstances do not often arise. But when they do, other walkers should try to learn from them.