The Korea Forest Service (Commissioner Kim In-ho) announced on the 2nd that it has prepared the ‘4 Mountain Climbing Safety Rules (NEED)’ to ensure that hikers can enjoy hiking safely during the peak autumn foliage season.
As the number of hikers increases sharply in the fall, various mountain accidents such as falls, slips, and exhaustion continue to occur. According to the Korea Forest Service, the average annual number of mountain accidents over the past five years (2019-2023) was 10,681. In response, the Korea Forest Service has presented four key rules: ‘Notice’, ‘Equip’, ‘Escape’, and ‘Descent’, to be easily remembered and practiced by citizens.
The first rule, ‘Notice’, involves thoroughly checking weather conditions and trail information before hiking, and being wary of slip accidents caused by fallen leaves and rocks. You can prevent accidents by checking for sudden weather changes, strong winds, and rain forecasts in advance while hiking.
The second rule, ‘Equip’, includes preparing essential gear such as hiking boots, extra clothing, and poles that match the season and temperature changes, and bringing sufficient water and snacks. It is particularly important to dress warmly to maintain body temperature due to the large temperature fluctuations in the fall.
The third rule, ‘Escape’, involves selecting a course that matches your physical strength and experience level and avoiding excessive hiking. Excessive schedules or long hikes can lead to exhaustion and injury, so caution is needed.
The final rule, ‘Descent’, advises descending before it gets dark, considering the short daylight hours in autumn. Starting a hike late in the day can make visibility challenging, increasing the risk of accidents.
Jung Ga-in, Director of the Korea Hiking and Trekking Support Center’s Forest Path Management Division, advised, “In autumn, the risk of hypothermia and dehydration is high due to sudden drops in temperature,” adding that “dressing to maintain body temperature and preparing sufficient hydration is essential for safe hiking.”
Song Jun-ho, Director of the Forest Welfare Bureau, emphasized that “Autumn mountains are beautiful but also pose a high risk for accidents like falls and exhaustion,” urging, “For an enjoyable hike, always prioritize safety and check the safety rules before hiking.”
