"Despite Warnings, Disruptive Hiker Gets Lost and Calls Rescue Helicopter"

The Dolomites mountain range. Pixabay

British Hiker Rescued After Unauthorized Entry in the Italian Dolomites

A British hiker in his 60s who was rescued from the Dolomites in Italy has been billed rescue costs amounting to 14,225 euros (about 20 million won).

According to reports from CNN and other foreign media on August 5 (local time), the man is said to have ignored warning signs and barrier fences, entering a dangerous area without permission before becoming stranded and requesting rescue. Two rescue helicopters and more than 12 rescue personnel were deployed to save him, and the entire cost of the rescue, 14,225 euros (about 22 million won), is to be borne by him. In the same area a week earlier, two Belgian hikers were rescued and billed much less—since they are EU citizens. However, the United Kingdom, having left the EU in 2020, is excluded from such benefits.

Dolomites, Italy. Getty Images Bank.

According to the Italian National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps (CNSAS), the region has been experiencing extreme weather conditions due to climate change, including landslides, sudden snowstorms, and heavy rainfall. Between June 21 and July 23, 80 hikers died and 5 remain missing while hiking in the Dolomites and the Alps. Rescue requests have surged by 20% compared to last year, prompting the closure of some dangerous routes.

On July 28 (local time), CNSAS stated via social media that "Warning signs clearly stated the closure in English, Italian, and German, but the hiker ignored them," and that "he entered even though other hikers advised him to turn back." Regarding the closure of more access routes, CNSAS explained, "These measures are intended to protect the safety of not only hikers but also rescuers, helicopter crews, and ground teams."

Authorities: "Rescue Equipment Is Not a Taxi... Safety Awareness Needed"

Giuseppe Dal Ben, director of the Dolomites regional health authority, commented on the incident, saying, "This situation calls for some reflection," and emphasized, "A helicopter is not a taxi." He added, "Since this equipment is essential for time-sensitive operations in harsh environments, reckless hiking should not put those who genuinely need help at risk."