Kanto Smart Living Cooperative reminds that mountain accidents are frequent in suburban mountainous areas. Before climbing, you must plan and carry the necessary equipment. Safety climbing should not be neglected.

Mountain accidents in suburban mountainous areas have increased significantly, underscoring the importance of thorough planning before embarking on a climb. (Photo via MERXWIRE)

TOKYO, JAPAN (MERXWIRE) – As summer approaches, Japan welcomes the mountain climbing season. Whether it’s challenging high mountain hiking or hiking in the suburban mountains near the city, it’s a choice for many people to relax and cool off. However, according to the latest statistics from the Japanese National Police Agency, there has been a significant increase in mountain climbing accidents in low-altitude mountainous areas around cities, subverting the traditional impression that “mountain accidents often occur in remote mountains.”

In 2024, Nagano Prefecture (321) and Hokkaido (189) reported the most mountain accidents in the country, followed closely by Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture, which each had 183 cases. This indicates that suburban mountaineering routes in densely populated areas also pose a high risk. Compared with 2019, mountain accidents in Tokyo and the four surrounding prefectures increased from 277 to 457, a 1.6-fold increase. Not only that, among the 3,357 missing persons, as many as 79.7% were engaged in activities such as mountaineering, hiking, ski mountaineering, rock climbing, or stream exploration. The majority were over 40 years old, accounting for nearly 80%, and half were over 60 years old. Middle-aged and older mountaineers need to be more vigilant.

To reduce the occurrence of mountain accidents, Kanto Smart Living Cooperative proposed “Six Practical Suggestions for Preventing Mountaineering Accidents” based on data and suggestions provided by the Japanese National Police Agency and experts, calling on all climbers, no matter what kind of mountain they are going to, to be well prepared and vigilant is the key to avoiding accidents.

First, it is crucial to develop a safe climbing plan and prepare complete equipment. Before climbing, you should choose an appropriate mountain route based on your physical strength, health status, climbing experience, and the weather conditions of the day. Be sure to refine the contents of the climbing plan, including the scheduled travel time, reserved rest periods, possible escape routes, and the necessary equipment and food to carry. For example, hiking shoes, rain gear, maps (including both paper and app versions), compasses, helmets, tents, climbing snacks, and spare batteries are all indispensable.

Compared with 2019, mountain accidents in Tokyo and the surrounding four prefectures increased from 277 to 457, a 1.6-fold increase. (Chart via MERXWIRE)

Secondly, climbers should take the initiative to submit climbing notifications and share the itinerary plan with relatives, friends, or colleagues. This is not only an effective means to speed up search and rescue operations in an emergency, but also to help others check whether the plan is complete. People can use the climbing entrance to set up a climbing notification box or submit their climbing plan to the local police station or government unit through special websites, climbing apps, and other channels to increase safety.

Third, the key to preventing getting lost is to master maps and positioning capabilities. Many accidents are caused by misjudging the route and failing to confirm one’s position. Therefore, carrying a compass and a map and being familiar with their use is a fundamental skill for every climber. It is recommended to use digital mountaineering maps in combination with traditional paper maps so that you can maintain your sense of direction and make correct judgments in case your phone fails, there is no network, or the battery is exhausted.

Fourth, preventing slips and falls in complex terrain is the key to saving lives. Even in low-altitude mountainous areas, gravel slopes, slippery mud trails, or steep downhill slopes are common. You should wear hiking shoes with good grip, carry hiking poles to assist with walking, and prepare protective equipment such as crampons, ice axes, and helmets when necessary. During the climbing process, you should pay attention to the rhythm of your steps and the ground conditions to avoid slipping and falling due to greed.

Although it is cool in the mountains, you still need to be cautious of heatstroke and not ignore the risk of high temperatures. Many people mistakenly believe that mountainous areas are cooler than cities. Still, long-term exposure to the sun and continuous exercise during summer mountaineering can easily cause body temperature to rise. You must be highly alert to the signs of heatstroke, such as dizziness, nausea, and leg cramps. It is recommended to wear breathable clothing, replenish water and electrolytes regularly, and choose to climb in the morning or evening when the temperature is lower. If you experience symptoms of heat stroke, rest immediately, cool down, and seek medical attention as needed.

Finally, avoid climbing alone. Going with a companion can ensure safety. Even suburban trails can become traps when the weather changes suddenly or you are exhausted. Going with an experienced companion can not only complement each other in physical fitness and skills, but also respond quickly and support each other in emergencies. If you need to act alone, you should also be vigilant and report your whereabouts frequently.

Kanto Smart Living Cooperative reminds the public: “Mountain climbing is not just a leisure activity, but also a kind of awe and responsibility for nature.” Especially on seemingly harmless suburban routes, tragedies often occur due to the underestimation of risks. Only with adequate preparation in advance, proper equipment, timely rest, and teamwork can mountain climbing become a genuinely safe and rich natural experience.

Media Contacts:
Kanto Smart Living Cooperative

PR Agency:
MERXWIRE INC.
Ada Huang
[email protected]

SOURCE: Kanto Smart Living Cooperative

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