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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (August 1) urged people to take extra precautions when hiking in remote areas or on non-managed trails.
In response to a recent spate of hiking accidents, some of which were outside country park areas, a department spokesman said hikers should be well prepared for the excursions and travel with others.
ˇ§It is always advisable to use the well-managed and well-maintained trails totalling some 500 km within country parks,ˇ¨ he said.
ˇ§Hikers should be aware of the risks involved in exploring remote and non-designated trails. They should stay away from cliffs and avoid paths that may be extremely slippery or vulnerable to flooding after a heavy rain.ˇ¨
People urged to observe the following safety tips when travelling in the countryside:
* take note of possible hazards in the countryside and carefully plan the route before setting out;
* travel in company and do not overstretch oneˇ¦s physical fitness;
* to be well equipped, bring sufficient drinking water and sleep well on the night before the journey;
* watch out for any changes in the surrounding environment and weather conditions, with contingency plans arranged in advance.
The department will send letters to hikersˇ¦ organisations reminding them to exercise extra caution in organising outdoor activities.
Ends/Tuesday, August 1, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:21
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