Safe hikes in the Harz: Mountain watch lists alarming missions!

Safe hikes in the Harz: Mountain watch lists alarming missions!

When the sun seems to be over the picturesque landscapes of the Harz in nice weather, thousands of hikers flock to the region every year to enjoy the impressive views and fresh air. But the idyllic backdrop has its dark side: accidents and emergencies are not uncommon during the hikes. In the first half of 2023, the Harzer mountain rescue service was asked for 44 missions, which means that the rescuers had to deploy more than once a week to help hikers in need, such as news38 reported.

of these 44 missions 27 were on the mountain rescue service in Wernigerode and 17 on the group in Thale. The missions were not always easy: for example, three air rescues had to be carried out by winch in June, with a police helicopter supported. An incident ended tragically for a mountain bike driver who died without a protective helmet at the Gelber Brink mountain pass after a severe fall. Climbers are also in danger - an accident on the big flint ended with a ten -meter -deep fall and a serious injury to the climber.

The challenges for the mountain guard

Matthias Kirmann, spokesman for the mountain rescue service, draws attention to a central problem: Most hikers, climbers and cyclists are well equipped, especially if they plan their tours in advance. Nevertheless, there are always unprepared day trippers who go up to the Brocken summit in sneakers and without suitable clothing. Kirmann raises the alarm when it comes to the recklessness of some people in unpredictable weather. This fits in a larger context that affects the security of mountain hiking. According to a study by the [DAV] (https://www.alpenverein.de/artikel/ Security Research Wanderstudie_6ae0e95b-b4ee-4690-A3BD-1CB75E2E4D18), almost a third of the reported accidents are recorded.

The results of this study show that many migrating people are in trouble, often without these situations being recorded in official statistics. In fact, 82% of the participants felt uncomfortable when sliding or stumbling, and 57% had perceived a thunderstorm nearby in the past ten years. It is shocking that despite the experience of the hikers, 45% of them experienced panic states that they classified as dangerous.

a call for caution

The Harz mountain rescue service, which belongs to Germany's northernmost mountain rescue guard, is an important part of the rescue network in the region. With around 120 active and supportive members, including a youth group to promote youngsters, this organization is committed to the safety of the hikers around the clock. Kirmann and his team appeal to the hikers to better prepare for their tours. This means not only carrying the right equipment, but also keeping an eye on the weather and knowing your own limits.

The mountain rescue service will continue to be required, so it remains to be hoped that the hikers will act wisers and prepare responsibly for their adventures in the Harz. After all, it says: Prevention is better than healing.