The Sports Administration updates the Guidelines for Mountaineering Activities to reduce mountain accident occurrence
Taiwan's mountains and forests are rich and diverse, making them a popular choice for leisurely day walks near the city or multi-day mountain challenges with the necessary equipment. The Sports Administration (SA) released the revised "Guidelines for Mountaineering Activities" on July 15, 2024. The guidelines advise the public to participate in mountaineering activities at their own risk, to choose appropriate routes considering their physical ability and create a detailed plan based on the route's needs. It is also recommended to have a designated contact person and, if necessary, hire professional mountain guides from legal operators, following their instructions to ensure safety and reduce the occurrence of accidents.
In line with the policy of opening up mountains and forests, the SA formulated the "Guidelines for Mountaineering Activities" in 2020 to remind people of the importance of mountaineering safety and the concept of own-risk through administrative guidance. These guidelines serve as a reference for those participating in mountaineering activities. With the increasing frequency of mountain climbing accidents in recent years, the SA has reviewed the situation and revised the Guidelines, which were re-released on July 15, 2024. The updated guidelines clarify relevant text and definitions and now require organizers of mountaineering activities to obtain insurance for climbers and provide risk notifications. Additionally, the guidelines include a recommended physical fitness and equipment table, offering information on risks and necessary gear for participants to assess their capabilities. The revisions also provide examples of mountaineering plans, helping people consider various planning factors in advance and develop complete mountaineering plans.
Mountaineering is an activity that people can easily engage in, but for their safety, regular exercise is essential. Before setting out, individuals should gather relevant itinerary information, complete mountaineering plans and improve their own mountain knowledge and skills. For more challenging routes, it is advisable to exercise in advance to strengthen physical fitness. Additionally, when climbing in groups, it is recommended to team up with familiar people who can look out for each other. If assistance from an operator is needed, be sure to carefully select an agency that provides qualified mountain guides.
The SA notes that intensification of climate change has happened in recent years and severe weather, including frequent and sudden heavy rainfall, have occurred this summer. When planning mountaineering activities, people are advised to check the weather forecast in advance and stay alert to weather changes during their climb. Continuously assess physical fitness and load, and remember that sometimes retreating is the wisest choice. Remember, the mountains will always be there.
