TOPR strikes an alarm in the Tatras. Urgent message for all tourists

This year's vacation period in the Tatras goes to past under the sign a actual siege. Thousands of tourists go on the trails all day, frequently ignoring the basic safety principles and emergency warnings. Meanwhile, Tatra Volunteer Rescue Assistance (TOPR) is issuing an urgent message, stressing that the situation is becoming increasingly dangerous. The combination of evidence crowds, hot weather in the valleys and its violent breakdowns in the advanced parts of the mountains creates an explosive mixture. Paramedics appeal for reason and remind that even the seemingly easy way can turn into a deadly trap in a fewer minutes. The Tatra National Park authorities confirm that attendance is unprecedented, and parking lots and popular trails are blocked from the early morning hours.

Record crowds and paralysis on the trails. That's the situation.

Paintings from the Tatras match urban pedestrians during rush hour. Queues to the Sea Eye, Giewont or Kasprowy Wierch run for hundreds of meters, and the waiting time for entering the popular peaks can be frustratingly long. As the Tatra National Park (TPN) informs, attendance beats all records, leading to congestion not only on routes but besides on access roads and parking lots. Parking places in Palenica Białczańska or Łysej Polana are occupied before dawn, which forces motorists to abandon their cars in prohibited places.

This plunger has a direct safety ratio. Firstly, in the event of an accident, it is very hard to get aid. Secondly, the force of time and the desire to "take" the summit at all costs make unreasonable decisions, e.g. overtaking in dangerous places. Traffic congestion with chains, specified as the approach to Rysa, become the norm, which in combination with a abrupt weather breakdown can lead to massive and very dangerous situations. Paramedics emphasize that even a insignificant incidental can origin a domino effect and paralyze traffic throughout the route.

Weather trap in the mountains. TOPR warns against abrupt breakdown

Sunny and hot weather in Zakopane and surrounding valleys is highly deceptive. TOPR warns that conditions in the higher parts of the Tatras can change dramatically within a twelve minutes. This is the biggest threat that is notoriously ignored by tourists. Sudden weather breakdown it's not just rain – it's a abrupt drop in temperature, a violent wind, hail, and above all highly dangerous storms with lightning discharges.

"We already had cases of cooling and losing tourists amazed by the abrupt rain and fog this season," says 1 of the TOPR rescuers. Forecasts for the coming days are clear: afternoons should be expected violent storms and intense rainfall. Being out in the open at this time, in the ridges or close metallic chains is simply a deadly danger. Paramedics remind you that in the mountains you should plan a journey so that before the expected weather break you will be in a safe place, preferably in a shelter or downstairs.

Failure to prepare is simply a simple way to tragedy. Tourist mistake list

Unfortunately, the crowds on the trails go hand in hand with a deficiency of appropriate preparation. TOPR rescuers regular observe tourists whose outfits and equipment are suitable for a walk around the Krupówki, not for a demanding mountain hike. Ignore basic safety principles is the main origin of accidents.

The most common errors are:

• Inappropriate footwear: sandals, flip flops or sneakers with flat soles is simply a simple way to slip and a serious injury.
• No rain and warm clothing: even on a hot day in the backpack, there must be a rain coat and a fleece hoodie. abrupt weather breakdown can origin risk of hypothermia.
• Insufficient amount of water and food: exercise and advanced temperature lead to fast dehydration.
• No charged phone: telephone with installed application ‘Help’ It's basic. You should besides take the powerbank with you.
• Selection of not-suited route: Many tourists take hard trails, having no experience, which frequently ends in a distress call.

How to walk safely? Key principles and recommendations of PPN and TOPR

In consequence to the critical situation, TNP and TOPR intensified information activities and reinforced patrols on the routes. Additional informing signs appeared on the routes. However, the work of tourists remains crucial. In order to be a pleasance and not a conflict for survival, it is imperative to follow respective rules.

First of all, check the weather forecast in respective reliable sources (e.g. TOPR, ICM) just before leaving. Secondly, plan the way adequately to your physical abilities and experience. Third, always inform individual about the planned way and the expected time of return. The essential equipment is: map, charged telephone with powerbank, flashlight, first aid kit, change of clothes, rain coat and a supply of food and drink. Remember, there's no area for bravado and improvisation in the mountains. It's better to quit the summit and get back safely than hazard wellness and life.