KEEP SAFETY IN MIND THIS ADVENTURE SEASON
As the winter weather comes, the UAE’s wilderness beckons — enticing residents to go on that outdoor adventure they have been daydreaming of. Plus, with some hiking companies offering expeditions starting at Dh300, it could just be the perfect day for a hike.
Experts, however, reiterate that safety is paramount.
Inexperienced trekkers — who travel to mountainous areas without any communication equipment and without enough preparation — could end up getting lost in the rough terrains, they warned. Among the potential risks are injuries, dehydration, or heat exhaustion, as there are some day-trekkers who go to these sites without enough water.
Earlier this month, an Emirati family who was on a trek in Ras Al Khaimah had been rescued after they got stranded on a mountain. Rescuers had to comb through Al Gheil area before they found the family of five, who were safe but all exhausted from their hike.
Similar incidents were reported in May this year. There was one where two European residents were rescued after going missing in Ras Al Khaimah’s Jebel Jais.
While there have been no fatalities this year, some tragedies have been reported in the past. In December 2015, a 22-year-old British citizen died on Jebel Jais, and earlier in the same year, a resident died from heat and dehydration after getting lost while hiking on Wadi Al Sameenah Mountain.
‘Try indoor climbing first’
Group Commander Saeed Al Yamahi, head of the air wing section in Ras Al Khaimah, urged all trekkers to learn the basics of rock climbing before they go on a hike. It is best to do some practice sessions in an indoor wall climbing facility first, he said.
“Climbers should also inform the authorities about their activities, whereabouts and the number of people they are with. They must consult official websites to get up-to-date information on local climbing sites,” he added.
All mountain-climbers and tourists and workers are highly urged to be more cautious in exploring these areas. They must also bring a mobile or satellite phone so they could easily contact the authorities in case of emergencies. “A whistle could be useful to attract attention. Then, they should ensure that they have enough food for their hike,” Al Yamahi explained.
We rescue dogs almost every weekend. A lot of people go towards off-location sites without a licensed company or a mountain guide with dogs.”
Lumia Khan, Dubai resident