Firefighter Dies Rescuing Rafters as Nantou Considers Closing High-Risk Outdoor Areas

Firefighter Wu Cheng-jung died while attempting to rescue rafters stranded on Taiwan’s Zhuoshui River, prompting Nantou County to consider stronger controls on outdoor activities in dangerous conditions.

Nantou County Magistrate Hsu Shu-hua visited Wu’s family at the hospital. Asked whether the county should use local regulations to discourage mountain climbing and rafting during poor weather, she said officials needed to address the danger faced by rescuers.

Hsu said weather conditions can change rapidly. People may begin a mountain trip when conditions appear manageable, only to face severe rain one or two hours later. The county will work with central authorities to identify areas where suitable closures or warnings could prevent people from entering hazardous locations.

The county government also plans to consult the Ministry of the Interior and other local governments. It will review existing regulations and consider revisions to reflect the risks created by increasingly extreme weather.