Travel
Fall hiking: Enjoy the trails, but prioritize safety
haps Magazine Korea
October 7, 2024
(fall hiking)
As the peak autumn hiking season begins, the Gyeongnam Province Fire Department is urging residents to stay vigilant, with a noticeable rise in the number of hikers and related safety incidents.
Over the past five years, fall has proven to be the most dangerous season for mountain accidents, accounting for 1,342 of the 4,132 incidents recorded (32.4%).
The most common causes of accidents include general mishaps (1,292 cases), slips and falls (727 cases), personal illness (371 cases), and exhaustion or dehydration (277 cases).
Together, slips, falls, and illnesses make up nearly half (48.8%) of all reported incidents.
One recent example occurred in September on Mt. Georyu in Goseong-gun, where a hiker in his 60s fell two meters after experiencing dizziness, resulting in rib and back injuries. The fire department deployed a helicopter and 24 personnel to safely transport him to the hospital.
To prevent such accidents, hikers should always check terrain and weather conditions, dress appropriately, and bring essentials like water, emergency medication, a headlamp, and a weatherproof jacket.
For added safety, the fire department conducts joint rescue training, safety inspections, and awareness campaigns to ensure rapid response in case of emergencies.