A Guide for Hikers

Hiking is an exercise with both physical and mental benefits. Not only can it improve your physical fitness, but it can also help you to relax. To ensure a pleasant journey, you should take note of the following guidelines.

Preparation before the hike:

1. Plan your hike
   • Choose a hiking trail suitable for the strength and ability of your fellow hikers.
     
     
   • All hikers must be briefed on the route to be taken and regarding any possible danger spots.
     
     
   • To ensure safety, at least one person in the party should be a trained or experienced hiker.
     
     
   • Before setting out, inform family members and the local police post of your route and the time you expect to return.
     
     
   • Practice basic life-saving and first aids techniques, so that if an accident occurs you can reduce the likelihood of severe or fatal injury.
     
     
   • People suffering from chronic illness such as heart disease or asthma should consult a doctor on whether a hike is advisable, and if so, any necessary precautions to be taken.
     
     
2. Weather conditions
   
   
• If the weather is bad, unstable or too hot, do not go hiking.
  
  
• If there have been recent hard rains, wait for a few days until the weather has stabilized before setting off on a hike. This will minimize the possibility of encountering mud slips.

Preparing what to take with you:

1. Suitable equipment
   
   
• Clothing should be suitable for the weather conditions. During summer, choose clothing that absorbs perspiration and allows circulation of air, for example clothes made from cotton. In winter, make sure your clothing is adequate to keep out the cold but also allows free movement.
  
  
• Wear sports shoes suitable for hiking, which will protect your feet from excessive fatigue and injury.
  
  
• Bring along a sun cap, umbrella or wind-breaker in case the weather changes.
  
  
2. Preventing mosquito bite
   • Properly dispose of containers that can hold water e.g. put empty soft drink cans and empty lunch boxes. inside a covered rubbish bin.
   
   
   
   • Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothes and long trousers.
     
     
   • Apply insect repellent (containing DEET) on the clothes and exposed part of the body to protect the body from mosquito bite. Read and follow the label instructions on application. Generally speaking, formulations with about 10% - 30% DEET could be used in adults, while formulations with less than 10% DEET are recommended for children.
     
     
   • Never store containers filled with water for watering flowers or plants.
     
     
   • If you notice any mosquito breeding sites in public places, you may call the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Hotline 2868 0000.
     
     
3. Other necessary items
   
   
• Bring along enough food and water.
  
  
• Prepare an emergency medical kit, including plastic strips, bandages, cotton swabs, cotton balls and disinfectant etc..
  
  
• Carry a mobile phone with a fully charged battery in case of emergency.
  
  
• Bring a detailed map of the area and a compass.
  
  
• Carry a flashlight, whistle and ropes in case you get lost.

The principles of hiking safety:

1. Take note of your environment
   
   
• Outdoor activities are greatly affected by the weather. During hiking, listen to the weather report on your radio to learn about any changes in the weather.
  
  
• Pay attention to the terrain during your hike. Avoid steep inclines and deep pools of water, in order to prevent falls or drowning.
  
  
2. Personal safety
   
   
• Never go off on your own.Avoid hiking in dense woodland or tall underbrush, in order to avoid getting lost or being bitten by a snake.
  
  
• Don't eat wild fruit or drink from streams, in order to reduce the chance of poisoning or getting infection.
  
  
• Don't tease wild cats, dogs or monkeys, as they may attack you.
  
  
• Never smoke, as this may cause hill fire.