After covering all the Mountain Safety Basics at the entry point to help mitigate the risks that are particular to backpacking in general, backpackers must still be aware of what specific risks they face in the Natal Drakensberg. We have grouped the management of these into the following broad categories:
The hike leader is normally one of the most experienced members of a group and is therefore held the most responsible for managing the risks during an excursion into the wilderness. Having other experienced backpackers in the group makes a huge difference in dealing with these risks. Experienced backpackers will have already been exposed to most of the risks, they will have a better appreciation of their dangers, and they will have acquired some knowledge of how to deal with them.
Leaders, instructors and teachers who take inexperienced youngsters into the mountains should ideally take the time to do some training with them beforehand, exposing them to simulations in a controlled environment.
This training can include techniques for crossing flooded rivers, and basic climbing and abseiling skills. It is less than ideal to teach these skills at the moment they are needed for real for the first time. Such training can be fun, and it also allows leaders to gauge levels of strength and confidence. When time allows, some training can be done as exercises during normal backpacking trips if the youngsters hike together often (e.g. Scouts, school clubs). Hiking and backpacking clubs should offer such training to their members as well.