Reckless skiers may not be rescued

Rescue services in the Italian Alps are criticising skiers and mountaineers who ignore advice and get themselves into trouble after reckless behaviour.  They not only endanger themselves; on Boxing Day four rescuers were killed trying to save people trapped in an avalanche. The head of public safety at the time, Guido Bertoloso said : “I’ve had enough of rescue workers losing their lives because people want to go on excursions without heeding warnings”.  His agency has proposed stiff penalties for reckless skiers including fines of up to £4,500 and even jail sentences.

More than 20 people have lost their lives in accidents in the Italian Alps this season. Recently, a rescue team found the two bodies of two climbers in an avalanche.  They had taken no notice of safety warnings.

It is already a criminal offence to cause an avalanche and legal action can be taken against skiers and snowboarders recklessly injuring others.  The new development is the suggestion that rescuers might not be prepared to risk their own lives to save people who had only themselves to blame.

It is essential that your travel insurance covers all the skiing, snowboarding and winter sports activities you will be undertaking.  Check carefully for restrictions and contact your travel insurer if you are unsure.

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