ALPINE ACCIDENTS

Hokitika Guardian, 11 June 1930, Page 6

ALPINE ACCIDENTS

PRECAUTIONS NOT OBSERVED

1 llv Telegraph- Press Association)

HAWE-EA, June 9

Speaking to-day on the recent aoci!ent on Mt. Egrnont, Mr L. O. Hooker, president of the Alt. Egrnont Alpine Club, said lie was reluctant to Pass any opinion as to the reason lor iishaps, but lie felt that the majortv of such occurrences coud be avoid'd if reasonable precautions were taken.

“The club is continually pointing out to its members the necessity for observing the strictly essential prin•iiples in alpine climbing;” said Mr Hooker,, “First of all those particip-. a ting in climbing require to be clothed properly to overcome any difficulties which may arise through exposure. Again., with parties going climbing under ice conditions, it is essential to have a responsible leader, and there is the principle recognised in all alpine areas that where the slightest danger is likely to arise through slipping, climbers should be roped together. There is no doubt that had die injunction concerning the use of the rope been, adhered to theie would not have been the same possibility oi iccidont in the recent cases.

“One cannot help but admire the -spirit displayed by rescue workers and the wonderful assistance rendered by the custodians at the different houses on the mountain. With this in view, climbers should keep in mind the fact that they should adept all possible measures to avoid injury to themselves and inconvenience to other people. A great deal of publicity has been given to thes e recent accidents by the Press throughout New Zealand, and very strong impressions may be given as to the safety or otherwise of Mt. Egmont as an alpine region. If, however, the reasonable respect to which Mt. Egmont is entitled is shown by visitors and ordinary safety precautions are adopted, there should be no cause to record further accidents of the kind which have occurred from time to time.”