The Seven Peaks of Guguan are seven well-known mid-level mountains in the Guguan area of central Taiwan, each with its own unique features, attracting many hikers. On September 23, reports emerged that six people sought help due to physical discomfort and getting lost. According to statistics from the Taichung City Fire Bureau, there have been 100 hiking-related incidents from January to August this year. To reduce such accidents, Fire Bureau Director Hsiao Huan-chang publicly appealed on Facebook that the Seven Peaks of Guguan are not ordinary hiking trails. Before climbing, one should assess their physical fitness, do sufficient research, and plan carefully to ensure a joyful hike and a safe return home.
The Taichung City Fire Bureau received reports on the 23rd that two men and one woman were hiking Mount Bojinjia in Heping District and sought help after just 1.5 kilometers due to a woman feeling unwell; additionally, one man and two women got lost about 0.8 kilometers down the stream near Butterfly Valley Waterfall in Heping District and called for assistance from the fire department.
The fire bureau’s statistics show that from 100 to the end of August 106, there were 100 mountain accidents in the Guguan area. The most common were getting lost or out of contact, with 54 cases, followed by injuries or illnesses at 35 cases, falls into valleys at 9 cases, and altitude sickness at 2 cases.
Hsiao Huan-chang stated that the Seven Peaks of Guguan are classified as “mid-level mountains,” which are different from regular hiking trails. They require more physical exertion, so proper preparation is essential, and one should not approach them with the casual mindset of walking on “Dakeng Trail.”
He also reminded the public that when hiking, they should go with others who are familiar with the route and carry sufficient lighting equipment, water, food, rain gear, mobile phones or radios, and whistles.
As the season is now approaching autumn and nights fall earlier, hikers are advised to carefully plan their routes and itineraries, carry hiking maps or use mobile navigation, and assess their own pace to schedule appropriate times for ascending and descending.
If unfortunately lost in the mountains, it is essential to use communication devices such as mobile phones or radios to contact the fire department, report your location and coordinates, stay warm and safe by remaining in place until rescued, and if carrying a radio, use the emergency frequency 145.00 MHz to call for help.
Hsiao Huan-chang emphasized that more preparation means fewer chances of accidents. He reminded hikers not to be careless or overly confident, so they can set out happily and return home safely.
(China Times)