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English version for hiking safety booklet now available
The English version of a booklet outlining basic safety hints and guidelines for hikers is now available free for members of the public at a number of locations throughout the territory.
A total of 5,000 copies of the English "Safety Hints on Hiking" booklet is produced. The Chinese version, which was launched in May, was well received and more than 70,000 copies had been distributed.
Both versions are obtainable at Agriculture and Fisheries Department (AFD) managed visitor centres at country parks in Aberdeen, Tai Mo Shan, Sai Kung, Clear Water Bay and Shing Mun; as well as the Lions Nature Education Centre, Tsiu Hang, Sai Kung.
They are also available on request at the public enquiry service centres of all district offices.
AFD country park management officer, Dr Yeung Ka-ming, hoped that the English version of the booklet would also benefit part of the community, especially those safety-conscious hikers who may not be able to read Chinese.
He said the main objective of producing the pocket-sized booklet was to promote safety in hiking and hill walking at country parks.
The booklet comprises several sections, including basic guidelines and hints, hiking preparations, points to note during journeys, potential dangers, methods of seeking assistance in accidents and a list of useful telephone numbers.
Although special techniques are not required for hiking, proper training and adequate preparation would always help hikers to cope with unpredictable changes in the countryside.
He hoped that hikers would study the booklet carefully and make reference on other relevant written materials and the most up-to-date maps when planning their journeys.
The printing cost of the booklets was sponsored by the Friends of the Country Parks, Countryside Heritage Society of Hong Kong and International Lions Clubs District 303.
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