As winds turn chillier and the leaves change color here in South Korea,… many head up the mountains to enjoy the scenic views.<br />However, hikers are being advised to be extra careful, …as lots of accidents tend to happen on the nation's mountains at this time of year.<br />Park Se-young has more. <br /> These rescuers are transporting a hiker who fell while climbing Seoraksan Mountain.<br />Between September and November every year, when autumn leaves change color, there is a spike in the number of accidents.<br />In the last five years, four out of ten mountain accidents in Gangwon-do Province happened during autumn season.<br />And climbing down the mountain is more dangerous than climbing up.<br /><br />"I think people lose their footing after drinking alcohol. There are people having a drink up there right now. Drinking makes you loose, you know."<br /><br /> Many people also become dehydrated while hiking.<br />If climbing for three to four hours, …climbers should pack extra clothes, food and phone battery packs just in case.<br />And because it's difficult to locate off-track hikers in emergency situations, it's important to stay on the designated trails.<br /><br />"Hiking off-track can be very dangerous. Also, remembering or taking photos of signs on trails can help you explain your location if there's an accident."<br /><br /> Hikers should schedule to climb down before sunset …and inform family or friends of hiking plans ahead of time.<br />Experts emphasize the need to prepare thoroughly for every hiking trip, …regardless of the size of the mountain.<br />Park Se-young, Arirang News. <br />
