Hillwalkers have been given a serious warning about the fatal consequences of not being prepared for Scotland's mountains following the tragic loss of six lives over the last two weeks.
A 28-year-old man died and two others were rushed to hospital following a major rescue operation on Ben Nevis on Tuesday night.
Meanwhile the search continues for Nick Gillingham, last seen near the summit of Stob Coire Nam Beith, Glencoe, on Sunday.
Inspector Matt Smith, Police Scotland Mountain Rescue coordinator said: “We would urge those seeking to venture into the outdoors to take extra care. Challenging winter conditions still prevail in the hills with large areas totally covered in snow and ice.
“Often these areas are completely unavoidable and snow may be rock hard with a high likelihood of a fall unless crampons and an ice axe are carried and most importantly, the group has a knowledge in how and when to use them.
"A slip in these situations may have very serious or fatal consequences."
Around 2.15pm on Tuesday police were made aware of concerns for a number of people in difficulty on Ben Nevis.
A major rescue operation was launched with mountain rescue teams and police officers scrambling to assist 23 people.
As well as the 28-year-old man who was pronounced dead at the scene, two soldiers aged 29 and 27 were taken to hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
Neil Gillingham and his black and white springer spaniel were last seen at around 1.30pm on Sunday near the summit of Stob Coire Nam Beith south of Glencoe.
His dog Cooper was found on Tuesday but the search was stood down on Wednesday due to weather conditions.
Police Scotland says it will resume once it is safe for mountain rescue teams to do so.
Inspector Smith added: “It is vitally important to understand the risks of your activity, the experience of your group, the prevailing weather conditions during, and at your intended destination and that suitable equipment is carried to allow you to navigate safely over steep or icy terrain.
"Make a plan, don’t be afraid to adapt and make sure you think about what to do if things go wrong.
"The photo you’ve seen on social media is not always a true reflection of what you may find when you get there.
“The volunteer Mountain Rescue Teams across Scotland are an amazing network of dedicated and highly skilled people who will do everything they can to assist you if you find yourself in difficulty but responsibility for staying safe on the mountains rests with us all."
Mountain Rescue Teams recovered the body of a man on March 3 following a two-day search for experienced hillwalker David Low in Glencoe.
Just two days before a 54-year-old man died after plunging from the ridge of An Teallach near Dundonnell in Wester Ross on Tuesday, March 1.
Rescue teams have also been called out to multiple rescues where thankfully difficulties didn't end in fatal consequences.
Kevin Mitchell from Scottish Mountain Rescue said: "Our condolences go to the families of the six people who have lost their lives.
"We would urge people to be prepared, have the right equipment, and be aware of the conditions.
"Even the best people can have a fall or trip."
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