From June to August 2024, Mountain Rescue Tyrol had to respond to a total of 1,392 missions – more than ever before in one summer. Most of the missions (19%) were in the district of Imst, followed by the districts of Reutte and Innsbruck Land. Accidents while hiking accounted for the largest share at 44%, followed by mountain biking accidents at 16%. At 36%, the most common cause of accidents was a fall or slip, followed by medical causes at just under 10%. For the upcoming hiking season in the fall, mountain rescue once again appeals to hikers to plan their tours carefully. Significantly shorter days, the rapid onset of darkness, sometimes wintry conditions in the high mountains and the rapidly falling temperatures during the long, clear nights should not be underestimated.

July and August absolute record months
After a rather quiet June due to the weather, the mountain rescue service was alerted 514 times in July. In August, the number of alpine missions rose to 602, which is the highest number of alerts in one month in the history of the volunteer rescue organization. The fact that most accidents occur while hiking is partly due to the fact that hiking is the most common activity in the Alps. However, it also shows how important it is to plan a tour well and choose it according to your personal abilities. The right equipment is essential.  

“We experienced everything this summer, from normal mountain accidents to missions caused by a lack of preparation, overestimation or poor equipment,” explains Ekkehard Wimmer, director of Mountain Rescue Tyrol, adding: ”On some days, local units had to deal with up to 5 missions. We can only manage all of this on a voluntary basis thanks to the high level of motivation, professionalism and good training and organization of our 4,600 mountain rescuers throughout Tyrol”
Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

Short days and snow in the high mountains create new circumstances
With its mostly stable weather, the upcoming fall offers a beautiful hiking season before winter. However, it is important to note that the days are getting shorter quickly and the long, often clear nights mean that temperatures are often low. Snow is also likely to remain, especially at higher altitudes and in the north. “Tour planning, taking into account the current conditions, remains an essential means of preventing emergencies”, says Christian Eder, head of the Tyrolean Mountain Rescue Academy. A headlamp and a first aid kit should also always be packed and a timely start made.

Insurance cover for just 32 euros per calendar year
To insure yourself against accidents in alpine terrain as well as on ski slopes, the Tyrolean Mountain Rescue Service offers its own sponsoring membership. With a contribution of € 32.00 per calendar year, you receive comprehensive insurance cover. Accidents on the mountain and in the water and the associated rescues are covered. The insurance cover is valid worldwide. The sum insured is € 25,000 per person for rescue costs. The insurance is subsidiary. The insurance applies to all active sponsors. Spouses/cohabiting partners living in the same household and children up to the age of 18 are also insured. Your contribution also supports the Tyrol Mountain Rescue Service in procuring new equipment and maintaining its operational capability.