A safety team for mountain climbing in the Northern Alps held a ceremony on July 17 at the Oomachi government office. The team helps with safety guidance and rescue during the summer and fall hiking season. Recently, more beginner climbers and international tourists have been visiting, so spreading basic knowledge and etiquette for climbing is important. The team members promised to focus on guidance and education.
In the northern area, 18 team members will operate in three areas until September 23. In the southern area (the Yari-Hotaka Range), 15 members will be based at the Karasawa and Yokoo mountain consultation centers until October 14. As of August 13, 167 people have been involved in accidents this year, with 27 deaths. This is 31 more than the same period last year, which was the highest on record; deaths have increased by three.
There are more accidents involving beginners and middle-aged people who don’t realize their physical limits. Takashi Yaguchi, the leader of the northern team from Ikeda Town, said he wants to talk with climbers carefully and sometimes suggest changes to their plans if needed.
by MagazineKey4532