Accidents in the mountains on the rise
It was recently reported in Le Dauphiné Libéré that this summer (June, July and August), around 563 mountain interventions have been recorded in the Haute Savoie alone. These figures, which don't included assistance carried out by the Pompiers in July and August, show a notable rise on previous years. Estimations on the total number of rescues carried out by the PHGM and Pompiers together is in the region of 660 in the three month period.
At the end of September last year, the security services had intervened in 750 situations involving 27 deaths and 492 injuries. With one month still to go, this years figures are already showing 28 deaths in the region (18 from alpinism) and 384 injuries.
We can't stress enough how important it is to take sufficient precautions and care when in a mountain environment. Ensure you have planned your route properly, have appropriate equipment and supplies with you and always stay within your abilities. If you wish to explore the more difficult high alpine itineraries, always go accompanied by a Mountain Guide.
For more information on hiking in the Chamonix Valley see our featured article
