Safety Tips

Connecting with new partners for mountain adventures is exciting, but safety always comes first.

Here are the essentials to keep in mind, both online and in the mountains.

Don’t share your home address, financial information, or private documents.

Get to know your partner gradually. Use MYMCO chat before moving conversations elsewhere.
Be cautious with contact info. Share your phone number only when you feel ready.
Check profiles carefully. Pay attention to experience, portfolio, skills, goals, and references before agreeing on a trip.
Report concerns. If you notice suspicious behavior, fake profiles, harassment, spam, harmful behavior in the mountains, flag it immediately.

Start small. Begin with a short hike, climb, or training session before committing to longer or more technical trips.
Align expectations. Make sure your fitness, skills, motivations, and goals are in sync to avoid mismatches in the mountains.
Check gear together. Share a packing list, double-check essential equipment, and agree on who brings what.
Set safety protocols. Discuss turnaround times, route choices, communication methods, and emergency plans before you go.
Review conditions. Check the weather forecast, avalanche reports, and local regulations or restrictions.
Have a plan B. Decide on alternative routes or activities in case conditions or energy levels change.
Clarify logistics. Confirm meeting points, transport, accommodation, and how costs will be shared.
Talk about responsibility. Be clear on decision-making in the group and respect each other’s limits.
Know your emergency contacts. Before heading out, check local emergency numbers (e.g. mountain rescue) and make sure you and your partner or team members know who to call if something happens.

Meet in public first. If possible, grab a coffee or meet at the trailhead before setting off together.
Share your plan. Let a friend or family member know your route, partner’s name, and expected return time. Use tracking apps or check-in messages when possible.
Stay in control of transport. Keep your own way home available (car, train ticket, etc.) so you’re not dependent on someone new.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off — online or in the mountains — it’s always okay to turn back or leave.
Prioritize safety over summit. No climb is worth taking unnecessary risks with someone you don’t fully trust. The goal is to come home safely.
Stick to your limits. Be honest about your pace, fitness, and comfort level; don’t get pressured into pushing further than you want.
Keep communication open. Check in with each other during the climb and make decisions together.
Have essentials on you. Always carry your own water, snacks, navigation tools, headlamp, and emergency kit — even on “short” trips.

MYMCO is about building trust, step by step. Use these tips to make your adventures safer and your connections stronger.

Contact: