Irresponsible behaviour puts the lives of others at risk

The death of a firefighter during the rescue of two hikers highlights the risks inherent in activities we take for granted, and the need for participants to be mindful of those risks

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Family members, firemen and friends of late fireman Yau Siu-ming attend a ritual to pay their respects to him. Photo: Sam Tsang

Published: 4:39am, 24 Mar 2017

The tragedy in which a veteran firefighter died while rescuing two hikers during bad weather on Wednesday is an occasion for sorrow and regret. As we pay tribute to principal fireman Yau Siu-ming and express our deepest condolences to his family and colleagues, it would be wise to reflect on the risks involved in activities that are often taken for granted. The incident is a sad reminder that some people’s irresponsible behaviour can put others in danger and even cost lives.

The hikers prompted an overnight rescue operation involving some 250 officers after they strayed off the trail and became stranded in a treacherous part of the mountainous Ma On Shan Country Park. Yau was leading a search team in the early hours in the area, but lost his footing and fell off a steep slope. Foggy weather prevented helicopters from reaching the scene and Yau could only be winched away after more than 10 hours. He was certified dead after reaching hospital. An investigation has been launched by the Fire Services Department.

It does not take an expert to understand the risk of hiking during unstable weather conditions. The route in question is known to be rather challenging, even for experienced hikers. Rescuers had to hack their way through undergrowth and tackle slopes covered with bushes or loose, wet stones for hours in the search for the missing couple.