MUSCAT: Trekkers, mountain climbers and rock hikers have been advised to take sufficient precautions when scaling heights in extreme temperatures, according to experts.
Experts suggest that the key to safety is being well-informed and prepared for potential hazards, and ensuring safety through proper planning, preparation, and precautions. “The Sultanate of Oman has some unique terrain that complements mountain sports, and trekking and hiking are good sports activities that anyone can pursue. Having said that, it can also be dangerous if not carried out properly and under the supervision of an expert. To me, these precautions start from understanding one’s physical endurance, getting used to knowing the route and remembering to hydrate very often, to keeping proper communication networks open,” said Abdullah al Khaduri, a safety expert and trainer.
According to him, the first and foremost factor to take into consideration is not to venture out alone, and one should always have a team with a leader who can guide and advise the rest of the hikers. These extreme sports activities require constant practice, strong physical fitness, and specific clothing, especially hiking boots and a backpack containing first aid supplies, food, and water.
“It always pays off to learn the route well before the trek, also the distance, weather, and difficulty level, and keep someone informed about the plans and the expected return time," says Rahees Melekkandy, another climber who has been to most of the mountains of Oman.
One should wear comfortable trekking shoes, clothing, and protective gear, and carry sufficient water, energy snacks, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone. Rahees said that some of the challenges he faced during his group mountain hikes were dehydration due to insufficient water intake, followed by intense heat from the sun and descending steep slopes. The Royal Oman Police (ROP) and the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority have recently urged hikers to prioritise safety while venturing out on hiking or trekking.
"Before setting to scale any heights, one should give priority to safety by staying away from unstable cliffs, informing others of their plans, choosing trails suited to their fitness, carrying essential gear such as water, first-aid, navigation, illumination, checking weather, staying on marked paths, and avoiding selfies on dangerous ledges to prevent falls and injuries, and to use the service of a guide," A Royal Oman Police (ROP) spokesman said.
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