To strengthen the mountain rescue capabilities in Taichung City, Ms. Lin Zhu Mei-hua, a benevolent individual, donated a batch of high-spec mountain search and rescue equipment to the Taichung City Government’s Fire Bureau on August 4 at the Guguan Visitor Center. The donation includes lightweight backpacks, windproof rain suits, and functional moisture-wicking clothing, aimed at enhancing the safety and comfort of rescue personnel during operations. The donation was received by Deputy Captain Yu Yi-you of the Fire Bureau’s Second Corps on behalf, who presented a letter of appreciation and commemorative gifts to Ms. Lin Zhu’s long-standing dedication to public welfare and attention to the needs of frontline firefighters. It is hoped that more social goodwill can be rallied in jointly safeguarding the safety of citizens.
The Fire Bureau explained that in recent years, following the government’s policy to open up mountain areas, public participation in mountain-related activities has increased accordingly. Notably, Taichung City's renowned hiking destinations such as the Seven Heroes of Guguan and the Daxueshan mountain range have become popular hiking routes. With the substantial rise in the number of visitors entering these mountain areas, the frequency of mountain-related accidents has also increased, often placing dual challenges on firefighting units in terms of manpower and equipment. Ms. Lin Zhu Mei-hua has long upheld to the idea of taking from society and giving back to society, actively engaging in public welfare. She has shown particular concern for firefighting safety and the improvement of rescue equipment. In the past, she has donated multiple firefighting vehicles and various types of equipment, serving as a strong support for firefighters. Upon learning of the equipment update needs of the Fire Bureau’s Guguan Branch, she proactively expressed her willingness to make a donation.
The Fire Bureau emphasized that the donated equipment adheres to the principles of “professionalism, lightweight design, and practicality.” It includes highly acclaimed functional clothing and carrying systems available on the market, which assist mountain search and rescue personnel in maintaining comfort and mobility while operating in harsh environments characterized by cold, damp conditions and complex terrain. This enables them to complete search and rescue missions more safely and effectively. Deputy Captain Yu noted that mountain rescue operations often require prolonged periods of carrying heavy loads while navigating rugged forested areas and frequently facing severe weather challenges. The process is arduous and carries significant risks. He expressed his gratitude for Ms. Lin Zhu’s generous donation, which allows rescue personnel to undertake their duties in a safer and more comfortable state, thereby providing substantial support to firefighting capabilities. The Fire Bureau will make proper use of this equipment to maximize its effectiveness and will continue to strive to strengthen mountain search and rescue capacity.