Core Viewpoint - Ice climbing is gaining popularity as a winter outdoor sport, transitioning from a niche extreme activity to a mainstream leisure pursuit, but there are significant safety risks associated with it due to inadequate risk awareness among participants and insufficient regulation of climbing activities [1][4][10]. Group 1: Popularity and Participation - Ice climbing has become a popular winter outdoor activity, with increasing participation as barriers to entry lower [1]. - Despite the closing of ice rinks in urban areas, interest in ice climbing remains high due to the colder temperatures in suburban mountainous regions [1][4]. Group 2: Safety Risks - Many participants lack awareness of the risks involved in ice climbing, leading to unsafe practices such as unauthorized climbing on natural ice falls [1][4][10]. - Natural ice falls are often unstable and not maintained, posing risks of ice collapse and falls, especially in areas where rescue operations are challenging [4][5][10]. - Incidents of injuries from falls have been reported, highlighting the dangers of climbing on natural ice without proper safety measures [5][6]. Group 3: Unsafe Practices - Participants frequently engage in dangerous behaviors, such as climbing without proper equipment or breaking ice columns, which can lead to severe accidents [7][8]. - Social media has contributed to the normalization of risky behaviors, with individuals sharing videos and images of unsafe climbing practices [7][9]. Group 4: Commercial Exploitation - Some commercial climbing groups are organizing unauthorized ice climbing activities, promoting them through social media without proper safety measures or qualifications [9][10]. - These groups often do not comply with regulations requiring certified personnel and adequate safety protocols, increasing the risk for participants [9][10]. Group 5: Infrastructure and Services - Popular climbing sites, such as the Tiger Gorge Scenic Area, face criticism for inadequate infrastructure and services, including poor road conditions and unsanitary restroom facilities [11][12]. - Visitors have expressed concerns about the need for improved services to accommodate the growing number of climbers and enhance safety [12].