Mountain rescues up 181 per cent in 2020 compared with 2019; how to stay safe when hiking in Hong Kong
- The fire department called out 605 times in 2020 as Hongkongers flock to hills amid Covid-19 travel restrictions
- Make sure you pick a suitable hiking route that matches your fitness and experience, and call 999 if you are in trouble
Mountain rescue incidents increased 181 per cent in Hong Kong between 2019 and 2020, the Hong Kong Fire Services Department said. They were called out to 605 incidents, compared with 215 the year before.
In 2019, there were 121 injuries, with the number jumping to 322 in 2020. However, the number of deaths dropped from 13 to 11. Injuries and deaths were labelled “provisional figures”, so may yet change.
The context of the increase is that Hongkongers are flocking to the country parks in unprecedented numbers. With Covid-19 restrictions shutting entertainment venues and preventing travel, there are few other places to turn for leisure time. The trails are packed and once tranquil spots like Lantau Peak are now as busy as a shopping centre.
There was also a 31 per cent increase in vegetation fires, from 860 to 1,128, according to the Fire Services Department. But there were no related deaths or injuries in either year.