The Ben's name in Gaelic is Beinn Nimheis, meaning poisonous or terrible, and there's no doubt it's a dangerous place to be if you run into problems - health or weather.
People are forever getting into trouble on the Ben. They think that because it has a well-worn path up it, somehow it has been tamed - well you can forget that! The Scottish mountains (not just Ben Nevis) are dangerous places to be if you run into problems, so here are some ways to reduce the risks:
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When the observatory was working, readings showed that the average annual summit temperatures were just below freezing - nine degrees less than Fort William below. Remember that, and pack extra warm clothes no matter what time of the year.
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The weather can change within minutes around here; It can change from a total blue sky to heavy cloud and drizzle within an hour. Always be prepared with extra clothing and waterproofs, and keep an eye on the clouds forming on the horizon. If it does catch you out, have escape routes pre-planned at points along the route (and see point 3).
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Remember it's harder to turn back if you run into problems - know your own limits and don't be afraid to call it a day. You can always come back. That is, if you make the right decision. Pre-plan your route, and as much as is possible, stick to it. Also, leave a note with someone responsible. Sticking to the route means that if any rescue services are needed they know exactly where you should be - if you stray too far from the route, rescue will certainly be delayed. Give approximate times for your return, allowing for a bit extra for those unforeseen delays. (There is a rescue book in the Glen Nevis Youth Hostel reception area. This is where you can write down your route and expected time of return. DON'T FORGET TO SIGN IT WHEN YOU GET BACK!!!!!)
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Make sure at least one member of the party has knowledge of first aid - don't forget, even in the summer months people can get hypothermia up there. Also, if you have no experience in the mountains, it would be a good idea to take along someone who has. Experience gives you a feel for what the weather is doing, you can recognise the best escape routes from the map, know how to overcome obstacles and so on.
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It should go without saying that map reading skills are essential, and when the mist sets in, a compass can be a life saver. On Ben Nevis, the summit has cliffs on two sides, and if you were disorientated it would be all too easy to choose the wrong direction - unless you had a compass. Get one and learn to use it.
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Apart from extra clothing, food, map and compass, there are some other essential pieces of equipment that you shouldn't be without: a survival bag (bright orange) is cheap and could save your life; a head torch, in case you have to descend in the dark - something which you will have to do on a 24 hour challenge; and a whistle to attract attention in an emergency.
International Distress Signal.
Six signals (whistle blasts, torch flashes or similar in rapid succession). Pause for 1 minute and repeat until located. A reply is 3 signals in rapid succession followed by a 1 minute pause. Repeat to located casualty.
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Leave the Scottish mountains to the experts during the winter. The best time of year to visit most Scottish mountains would be May and early June - fewer people, no midges and, almost every year, a run of good weather. However, there will still be a covering of snow on the Ben at this time of year, so July through to September is the only safe option. (We were quite foolhardy and extremely lucky in early April.)
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Points to remember!