Summer mountain rescue missions on the rise in Black Forest
The Black Forest Mountain Rescue Service is seeing an uptick in summer operations, with a significant increase compared to 2019. From April to September this year, they've responded to 439 calls, surpassing the 2019 count of 373 missions. The 2022 season saw a slight bump to 447 missions.
Hiking accidents have unfortunately become more frequent, with an increase from 93 to 102 cases compared to the previous summer. The surge also affected cyclists, who experienced an increase from 79 to 87 accidents during the same period.
Despite a relatively low number of climbing and hang-gliding accidents — only 4 and 15 calls, respectively — the mountain rescue service has had its hands full with general public emergencies, highlighting the importance of preparation in outdoor activities.
Individuals should make the most of their leisure time and ensure that they are adequately prepared for outdoor adventures to avoid potential emergencies. Regrettably, some engage in extreme sports during their free time, leading to occasional emergencies.
Enrichment Insights
Unpredictable weather, increased visitor activity, and human error are among the various factors contributing to the high number of summer mountain rescue operations. Natural hazards like rockfall and landslides and equipment failure may also necessitate emergency services. Medical situations in remote areas where help is scarce should also concern hikers and climbers.
Common types of accidents in mountainous areas include falls, rockfall and landslides, weather-related incidents, and medical emergencies. These threats highlight the importance of safety measures, preparation, and proper equipment usage in enjoying outdoor activities.
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