Harz mountain rescue service: Hundreds of operations every year - safety is important when hiking!

Harz mountain rescue service: Hundreds of operations every year - safety is important when hiking!

The idyllic mountain landscape of the Harz attracts numerous hiking enthusiasts and adventurers every year. But despite the picturesque backdrop, caution is advised. As the Harz Mountain Rescue Service reports, there have already been 44 missions in the first half of 2023 to assist hikers in emergencies. Of these, 27 missions took place in Wernigerode and 17 in Thale. Dangerous situations are not uncommon, and according to the mountain rescue service, many visitors are often unprepared - a circumstance that poses major challenges for rescue workers.

How news38.de Reportedly, hikers and cyclists often suffer injuries ranging from broken ankles to serious falls. A tragic incident occurred in June when a mountain bike rider without a protective helmet had a fatal accident at the Gelber Brink mountain pass. A climber also fell from a height of around ten meters on the Großer Feuerstein in April and had to be rescued with serious injuries. At this point it becomes clear that mountain adventures always involve risks.

The tasks of the mountain rescue service

The Harz Mountain Rescue Service, which is part of the northernmost mountain rescue service in Germany and is part of the German Red Cross, is not only committed to rescue, but also to prevention. One example shows that even a group of six children and their carer had to be rescued in the dark because they were lost in a ravine. Kirmann from the mountain rescue service emphasizes that good equipment is important, but disciplined handling of the conditions is also necessary.

In 2024, the mountain rescue service recorded a total of around 140 operations - that corresponds to around ten missions per month. Most emergencies occurred in the summer months of July and August, when numerous hikers visited the region. The missions are diverse: The range of emergencies included everything from cardiac arrest to falls. A particularly tragic operation at the Hexentanzplatz in Thale ended with the death of a 17-year-old teenager who had fallen about 50 meters.

Rescue operations and air support

Air rescue support is becoming increasingly important, especially in the often inaccessible areas of the Harz Mountains. A helicopter from the German State Police and civilian rescue helicopters have been in regular use in recent years. mz.de emphasizes that the mountain rescue service offers regular training for its members, including special training for air rescue operations and practical exercises with the police helicopter squadron.

The mountain rescue service has a clear focus on training and prevention. Members undergo rigorous aptitude tests and include knowledge of conservation and medical care. There are currently around 120 men and women involved, 46 of whom are actively involved. A youth group with currently twelve members also provides a breath of fresh air and new blood in the mountain rescue service.

Tips for hikers

In order to avoid dangerous situations, the mountain rescue service gives important tips for all hikers: This includes suitable clothing, sturdy shoes, sufficient water, snacks and a flashlight. In addition, a fully charged cell phone can save lives in an emergency because the control center can locate the location. Before starting any hike, it is advisable to find out about the weather conditions.

The challenges that the Harz Mountain Rescue Service has to overcome reflect the great responsibility that comes with the beautiful but often unpredictable terrain of the Harz Mountains. Anyone who wants to take on this challenge should not only be well equipped, but also explore the mountains with respect for nature.