Mountain rescues down 30% this summer, but authorities still urge awareness of one's limits

Firefighters carried out 30% fewer rescues this summer in Catalonia compared to last year.

Between June, July and August, a total of 1,252 mountain rescues were recorded, the lowest figure since before the pandemic.

The figure is also a far cry from the 1,954 rescues carried out in 2020, the number of people doing activities in nature skyrocketed.

Alt Empordà and Pallars Sobirà are the regions where the most rescues have been recorded this summer.

Authorities acknowledge that hikers are "better prepared" in the mountains, although they warn that they still find themselves in risky situations "that could have been avoided."

Special Actions Support Group Sergeant Marc Reixach points out that many people do activities they are not physically prepared for, and as a result, find themselves in difficult situations.

He explains that "people are a little better equipped, although we always find someone who goes to Pedraforca in flip-flops." 

Reixach says planning the route is key, as well as looking at expected weather conditions. "In the mountains, it is crucial to be aware of what Meteocat says, because the weather can change quickly", he points out.

The sergeant asks that "everyone be aware" of their own physical capacity and limits when going up mountains, and Reixach reminds people that, when they go in a group, the activity must be adapted to those who are least apt, for example, children or older people.

The Fire Department also points out that one of the biggest problems they have when rescuing people is phone coverage.

Reixach explains that "everything is much easier" when the person has coverage and can provide the Fire Department with their location. 

In the event that there is no coverage, a common occurrence especially in valleys, Reixach says that the most effective thing is for one member of the group to try to reach an elevated area, to be able to make contact with authorities, and make themselves visible to the firefighters when they arrive.