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:: Read Part 1 of Kev's experiences in the Antarctic via the link below, and see Kev's stunning photos

Pre-trip preparations

Since joining the team at BAS I have done so many things I wouldn't have normally done.

During the time I was employed in UK everyone has to go on the field training course in Baslow, Derbyshire. This is to familiarise ourselves with some of the kit we would be using whilst south.

We get to abseil and jumar (ascend) on ropes, practice arresting falls then rescue using a z-pulley system as we would have to in the event of a crevasse rescue.

We also learn about whiteout searches by having painted goggles on searching for a person whilst walking over the rough terrain in a roped-up formation.

First aid course

I also did BAS's first aid course.... much more than the appointed first-aider at work I had done in previous jobs.

Penguins in the Antarctic

This included the basics of ABC (airway, breathing, circulation) and resuscitation but also how to take and record vital signs as well as how, when and what sort of splints or plaster casts to apply,Μύusing different types of stretchers and when to use them.

I also learnt how to use neck collars and immobilise the neck from movement, and how to clean and dress wounds.

We also practiced scenarios in which professional actors are hired and we have to act out the rescue or treatment for each patient. We learnt correct procedures to handle each scenario.

I was also one of a select few go on a paramedic course at Derriford hospital in Plymouth where BAS have a medical unit.

This included going out on call in the ambulances and assisting with real causalities.

Back at the hospital we practiced suturing, putting in IV's and drips and giving injections.

We also had to learn about the medication we use in Antarctica in case we need to use it in the field when there is no doctor present.

Setting sail

During the two-month sail south, I enjoyed a short stay in Montevideo, Uruguay, and had the best mixed grill ever at the meat market.

Kev O'Donnell with penguins

Further south, the Falkland Islands was another highlight... the penguin colony, the shipwrecks in Stanley, Goose Green and Radio Ridge and Tumbledown, places that became known to most of the UK's population as a result of the Falklands War.

Island highlights

I visited some of BAS's other bases en-route - King Edward Point, which is part of South Georgia and theΜύSouth Sandwich islands, Bird Island, and Signy Island in the South Orkney Islands group, all of which were amazing in their own right.

Signy Island, which is a meteorological and biology station is where I first came close to seals.

Kev has seen penguins and their chicks

It's also home to a whalers' graveyard up on one of the hills surrounded by fur seals that had melted all snow were they were from their body heat.

King Edward Point was memorable for the magnificent scenery, the prolific wildlife and Grytviken whaling station, whilst Bird Island was notable for the majestic Wandering Albatross and the beach of full of fur seals that have to be navigated so they are not attacked by the territorial males and maternal females.

A home from home

Halley has not only been a place of work to me but also a home and the experiences that I have encountered have been unique and truly amazing.

During the winter we became like an extended family because we are living in such close proximity and we get to know each very well.

I have visited the Emperor penguin colonies on many occasions and seen the new-born chicks being fed and nurtured on their parents' feet. As they get older I have seen them waddling around by themselves.

I also have holidays from here in which we get to travel linked up on Skidoos to the Hinge Zone and the McDonald Ice Rumples to explore crevasses and do some ice climbing.