Muscat – Despite ongoing efforts by authorities to promote safety measures, including the importance of researching hiking trails and registering on the Nidaa app, accidents involving falls from mountain tops remain a continuing concern.
A report released by Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) revealed that at least three individuals were recently injured after falling from mountain tops while hiking in different locations in the sultanate.
On December 23, rescue and ambulance teams of the authority in Muscat governorate responded to a report of an individual being injured while hiking in the wilayat of Muscat. The teams swiftly reached the site, provided emergency medical care and transferred the person with moderate injuries to hospital.
On December 20, rescue teams of CDAA in Muscat responded to an incident in which a citizen fell from a rocky cliff in the Fins area of the wilayat of Quriyat. The teams reached the location, provided emergency medical care and transferred the person in critical condition to hospital.
On December 13, a man fell from a mountain in the Dima Wa Al Taien area in North Sharqiyah. CDAA teams successfully rescued the individual, who was later transferred to hospital with critical injuries.
The authority also thanked citizens for cooperating with the rescue teams.
Following these recent hiking accidents, experts have stressed the importance of taking proper precautions to ensure safety during outdoor activities.
Khalid al Wahaibi, an adventure expert, emphasised the fact that hikers should be physically fit and have adequate endurance before embarking on hikes. “It’s important for everyone to start small and choose a trail suited to their fitness level. Once a trail is selected, hikers should obtain a map of the area, read reviews and gather reliable information. It’s best to hike in a group with proper sportswear and gear,” he advised.
Wahaibi also highlighted the need for properly marked hiking routes to reduce risk of accidents.
Mountaineering enthusiast Suleiman al Naabi acknowledged that favourable winter weather encourages more people to go camping and hiking. However, he stressed the importance of being well-rested and free of chronic conditions before heading out. “In the days leading up to your hike, and a few hours before starting, ensure you check your safety equipment and inform your family of your destination. A hiker must be physically and mentally prepared before setting out.”
CDAA further urged hikers to register the location and participants on the Nidaa app before starting their adventures. ‘This ensures the arrival of rescue teams faster in case of emergencies,’ the authority stated. The app is designed to help emergency teams respond more quickly during urgent situations, and adventurers are encouraged to take advantage of this service.
