Reflections on the January 27 tragedy on Mount Siguniang’s Third Peak, written in Shuangqiaogou, Siguniang Mountain area.
To climb snowy mountains safely, finding a suitable guide is not enough—the climber themselves must possess certain qualities (including high-altitude acclimatization, hiking skills, equipment use, etc.); additionally, one should have a thorough understanding and anticipation of weather changes and seasonal variations in routes. The allure and danger of mountain climbing both lie in the details. Negligence or a reckless mindset can mean disaster. Your life is your own—mindset matters, and adults shouldn’t act foolishly.
1. Before engaging in high-altitude mountaineering, you must have: sufficient outdoor living experience to adapt to this sport that requires you to manage various life details on your own. You should have a basic understanding of high-altitude human adaptation. Be familiar with the necessary mountaineering gear, including clothing, backpacks, camping equipment, protective gear, and assistive tools. Maintain a calm mindset—no matter how high you climb, you must return to the ground safely.
2. For first-time high-altitude climbs, the main goal is to gain experience in high-elevation climbing. Suggestions: avoid peaks above 6,500 meters in altitude. Avoid peaks requiring technical skills. Carefully read official climbing reports of the relevant peaks, rather than basing judgments solely on others’ anecdotal impressions. It’s best to use formal commercial mountaineering services and seek out climbing agencies with a good track record.
3. While determining a suitable peak and finding a qualified mountaineering service, you should also independently learn more about the various potential dangers of high altitudes, including: altitude sickness, severe weather, intense sunlight, and travel over snow, ice, and rocks. At the same time, understand your basic physical condition—those with heart, brain, vascular, or lung conditions should not attempt high-altitude climbs. Even healthy individuals need to undergo physical training in advance.
4. On the basis of the first three points, you may attempt your first high-altitude climb under as safe conditions as possible. Upon entering the mountains, the first priority is to achieve good high-altitude acclimatization. It is recommended to buy a fingertip pulse oximeter (costing around two to three hundred yuan) to carry with you—if your blood oxygen level falls below 70, you should prepare to descend. Once properly acclimatized, follow the arrangements of a qualified guide and gradually ascend. If you encounter severe weather, terminate the climb promptly.
5. When starting high-altitude climbing, avoid “romanticism,” “utilitarianism,” and “showing off”! The allure and danger of mountain climbing both lie in the details—on the snowy mountain, even urinating carelessly can be fatal, and forgetting to apply sun protection lip balm can lead to trouble… There are many critical factors. Whether you reach the summit or not, genuinely understanding through your first climb whether this sport suits you is especially important. Then decide whether to stop or to improve step by step.
6. In short, mountain climbing is a life-threatening activity that requires serious and earnest attention. “Never underestimate any mountain” and “Be fully prepared before you set out.”
