Scotland’s mountains become a winter playground for thousands of walkers and climbers at this time of year.
But a mountaineering body has warned that care needs to be taken to avoid becoming another statistic claimed by the hills.
Some 20 people have lost their lives so far in the mountains this year.
Mountaineering Scotland has analysed the deaths and said ten were either approaching, or on, a technical climb.
Three died as a result of avalanche, and three had spent a lifetime enjoying the hills.
Heather Morning, mountain safety adviser with Mountaineering Scotland said: “Shorter daylight hours, dropping temperatures and the first snow on the hill are all good indicators that it is time to think about extra kit in your rucksack.
“Routes will take longer than expected in winter conditions and many people will end up finishing in the dark – so a head torch – and spare batteries – is crucial.
“In fact better still is to carry a spare head torch – as anyone who has tried to change batteries in the cold and dark will testify.”
Temperatures above 3,000ft are at least 10c below what they are at sea level at this time of year and extra layers are essential for safety.
An emergency bivvy bag is also recommended while groups should also carry a nylon shelter in case they become stationary for any period of time.
Ms Morning added: “If you are heading out on the higher tops, now is the time to add crampons, rigid boots to accommodate them, an ice axe and spare essentials such as hats and winter gloves to your essential kit list.”