MUSCAT: As the summer break is upon us, many adventurers are stepping out for more hiking trips in the mountains of the Sultanate.

Oman is blessed with stunning landscapes, charming nature and towering mountains, making it an ideal destination for hiking, camping, climbing and cave exploration.

That said, the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) has emphasised the need to be cautious when going on such trips to unfamiliar terrain. One must adhere to safety instructions in order to avoid accidents from falling from heights, any other injuries or even death.

Some of the safety precautions that adventure seekers can keep in mind include choosing the right trail for your fitness level, familiarising yourself with the trail, informing your relatives of your route and location, wearing appropriate footwear and always checking the weather ahead of your trip.

When embarking on an adventure trip, never forget to carry emergency shelter (like a tent), headlamps or flashlights, extra clothing, food, water, matches or lighter, candles, sunscreen with maximum SPF, navigation systems like a map or compass and lastly, a first aid kit.

In conclusion, always remember that mountain hikers must always be accompanied by a guide who would lead the group and is trained in providing first aid in case of any untoward incidents.