Choose Safe and Suitable Hiking Route
Before setting out, study countryside maps, plan the trip and route carefully. Always choose a regularly maintained path with clear directory signs. Take into account the fitness condition, gear and physical ability of the participants and evaluate the length, gradient and surface condition of the route to assess whether the route is appropriate. Pay attention to the locations of fixed network emergency helpline telephones along the route and plan the evacuate route. Do not alter the planned route indiscriminately during the journey.
Always Pay Attention to the Weather Condition
Pay attention to the latest weather information issued by the Observatory before and during the activity. Change or curtail the planned route in case of inclement weather. Avoid mountain activity on days of very hot weather, high humidity, with no wind or when the Air Quality Health Index is very high or serious. It should be reminded that hikers are easy to get lost during bad weather.
Hong Kong Observatory — Weather Information for Hiking and Mountaineering
Follow the Planned Route
During the activity, do not deviate from the planned route indiscriminately, take shortcuts or venture into unmaintained path in bushes or forests. Pay attention to the physical fitness and strength of yourselves and other participants and avoid over-exhausted. If get lost, retrace along the original route and do not force your way forward. Avoid standing near a cliff educe or climbing onto rocks with falling hazard.
Choose Appropriate Clothing and Gears
Wear casual clothes, light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and long trousers, and hiking shoes with ankle protection and corrugated rubber soles. Take suitable caps that can protect against sunlight or keep warm. Bring along with ample of drinking water, food, suitable spare clothing and hiking lights. Equip with a countryside map, a compass and Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation device.
Carry a fully-charged mobile phone to facilitate communication and rescue in case of emergency. In case of an accident, call for help with the fixed network emergency helpline telephones installed along the route. Or dial 999 or the international emergency call number 112 with mobile phone to call for help.
Country Park Mobile Phone Coverage
Never Go Hiking Alone
Always go hiking with companions to avoid the lack of support in the event of accident. It is preferable to go hiking in a group of at least four and followed by an experienced hiking leader who is familiar with the planned route.
Using the "GPS Hiker Tracking Service"
Prior to starting your hiking trip, activate the "Hiker Tracking Service" via the "Safeguard HK"mobile app developed by Security Bureau or the"Enjoy Hiking"mobile app developed by the Agriculture, Fisaheries and Conservation Department. The GPS system will auto feed your tracking location within the next 24 hours (or the hiker press "OFF"and deactivate the service). The data will be recorded at the service center and retrieved for facilitating rescue if the need arises. The data will be encrypted and stored, then erased automatically after 7 days if no incident has been reported.
Download "Safeguard HK" mobile app ( "GPS Hiker Tracking Service" included)
iOS版本：https://apple.co/3am3OE6
Android版本：https://bit.ly/2Kl73RC
Download "Enjoy Hiking" mobile app ( "GPS Hiker Tracking Service" included)
iOS版本：https://apple.co/2qo0RBi
Android版本：https://bit.ly/32dyz9V