South China Morning Post
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More Hongkongers are flocking to the countryside for hikes amid the pandemic. Photo: Handout
Opinion
Editorial
by SCMP Editorial
Editorial
by SCMP Editorial

Hikers need to be more aware of trail risks

  • With the number of rescues in Hong Kong country parks surging in the first four months of the year, those longing to get out of the city and away from the pandemic should ensure they are prepared for the treks that lie ahead
SCMP Editorial
SCMP Editorial
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Rescuers from the fire services went to the aid of nearly three times as many hikers in Hong Kong country parks in the first four months of the year as in the same period in 2020, 426 compared with 155. Nearly 243 were injured, compared with 83 last year. These astonishing figures can be explained, like so many things, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. The virus that disrupted social life drove novice hikers onto the city’s trails to explore open spaces they may have never otherwise experienced. If that becomes a pastime for a new crop of hikers it will be positive for both personal and community health. Trail walking involves sustained exercise in a natural environment in which everyone should be able to choose their own pace.

However, it may also involve serious risk for the inexperienced and ill-prepared. This year’s injury toll is testament to that. Moreover, four people died during the period. The latest was a young man missing for days and who was found on a slope well away from a regular trail. And that is not to mention the danger to rescuers. Theirs is a high-risk occupation. They are understandably concerned about people relying on social media posts and video clips that make it seem easy to head out along some routes, when they lack experience, cannot read maps and do not know the terrain.

To get away from “crowds”, more experienced hikers are opting for more difficult routes. It is also understandable, when people have begun hiking because there are few other places to go, that they will soon find normal routes unexciting and will test themselves in less travelled parts. But it can be a dangerous temptation.

People need to be aware of the risks, such as extremes or sudden changes in the weather. The recent deaths of 21 runners from hypothermia in a 100km high-altitude mainland ultramarathon is an excessive comparison with the risks of trail walking here. Nonetheless the tragedy followed a drop in temperatures for which the runners were unprepared. It could just as easily have been stifling heat and humidity. Walkers need to be equipped, hydrated and protected from the sun, be familiar with the latest weather forecast, have a realistically achievable objective and know how they are going to get there. The recent extraordinary rescue rate is avoidable.
This article appeared in the South China Morning Post print edition as: Hikers must be more aware of trail risks
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