Safety first

Tian, general manager of the scenic area, stressed the importance of safety during the challenge.

"We conducted rigorous safety inspections of the area before the challenge began, and eliminated potential hazards," Tian said. "All participants were required to provide comprehensive health examination reports."

On the event's opening day, professional instructors gave all contestants training that covered treatment of injuries, emergency response, and safety procedures for starting and using fire.

A multi-layered protection system is in place for the duration of the competition. Safety checkpoints and round-the-clock patrols have been established throughout the area, while doctors conduct regular health assessments of the contestants. Fire extinguishers have been placed at selected locations, and the contestants' management of fire is monitored all the time, Tian said.

The event is operated under a comprehensive emergency response framework that coordinates multiple government departments, including culture and tourism, emergency management, healthcare, environmental protection, public security and fire services.

As the competition approaches the final round, safety protocols were intensified. Each of the remaining 14 contestants has been assigned a safety officer, who will provide 24-hour monitoring and support. Medical examinations are a daily routine, with the details determined by a hospital and the local health commission, Tian said.

Due to the sudden drop in temperature over the weekend, all the participants have started descending the mountain for a five-day rest, and each will receive a 20,000 yuan ($2,813) encouragement bonus. Also, the organizers have announced that all 14 remaining participants will advance to the finals.