Safety rules ignored
IN recent years, a number of independent Shanghai adventurers have gotten into trouble in the wilderness and a few have died. Most of them broke safety rules.
In June 2012, 10 independent travelers from Shanghai got stuck in a remote mountain valley in Wenzhou when torrential flooding swept all 10 away. Two men died.
In a more "famous" case in December 2010, a policeman died while trying to rescue 18 Shanghai tourists, including 14 students or former students from Fudan University, who lost their way on Yellow Mountain in Anhui Province.
They were on a weekend trek in an undeveloped area closed to tourists. They were caught in torrential rains and lost their bearings, though they had food and tents. They and their parents called for help. The policeman volunteered and fell down a cliff as he was escorting the group home.
In July 2010, a university student got lost in Cangshan Mountain in Yunnan Province when he was traveling alone. He was found dead two weeks later.
In August 2009, three Shanghai tourists drowned in rapids in Luxi Gorge in Zhejiang Province.
A few basics
? Before embarking, consult a medical professional if you have health concerns.
? Listen to your guide on safety procedures.
? Have the right attitude: Reaching the summit is not the only worthwhile goal.
? Prepare well in advance. Be physically fit, wear comfortable trekking shoes or boots, warm waterproof windbreakers, take at least 1.5 liters of water and a first aid kit. And that's just the beginning.
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