There are around one hundred search and rescue teams operating all over Iceland. The organisations are all nonprofit and volunteer-based and rely solely on public funding and donations.
The emergency number in Iceland is 112
The teams specialise in search and rescue services on land and at sea and count thousands of specialised volunteers who, thankfully, are always on hand when an emergency arises.
Read more: 70 search and rescue unit members searched for lost travellers during yesterday's storm
Frequent winter storms, increasing numbers of foreign guests visiting Iceland and locals’ ever-growing interest in outdoor activities have added much strain to Iceland’s search and rescue teams this winter—in fact, many units are at their breaking point.
A little planning ahead can help maximise your safety while travelling in Iceland and limit the chances of ever finding yourself in a tight corner. Here are a few reminders when travelling during summer:
1. If you plan to hike in remote areas, leave a detailed travel plan on the website safetravel.is.
2. Have a SPOT satellite device or a GPS device when travelling in the countryside or the central highlands. These small, life-saving devices have aided rescue teams in swiftly locating a person in distress.
3. Pack the appropriate equipment for your trip. The best philosophy when travelling in Iceland is hope for the best, but dress for the worst. Use waterproof bags for your clothes and gear and always try out new equipment before you head off.
4. Most mountain roads are closed for summer traffic until early July because of bad conditions. The narrow gravel roads turn into muddy quagmires when thawing out after a hard winter. The terrain is difficult to travel across and only meant for vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive.
5. Narrow bends, blind rises, loose gravel, deep potholes, and dodgy road margins can pose a risk when driving on gravel roads. It’s crucial to keep well to the right when navigating these roads.
6. Use common sense when travelling in Iceland: Take note of information screens and warning signs and stay safe.
7. Lastly, be informed! Seek information on the area before you set off. Keep up-to-date on road conditions by visiting the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration’s website and follow the weather forecast diligently.
There are around one hundred search and rescue teams operating all over Iceland. The organisations are all nonprofit and volunteer-based and rely solely on public funding and donations.
The emergency number in Iceland is 112
The teams specialise in search and rescue services on land and at sea and count thousands of specialised volunteers who, thankfully, are always on hand when an emergency arises.
Read more: 70 search and rescue unit members searched for lost travellers during yesterday's storm
Frequent winter storms, increasing numbers of foreign guests visiting Iceland and locals’ ever-growing interest in outdoor activities have added much strain to Iceland’s search and rescue teams this winter—in fact, many units are at their breaking point.
A little planning ahead can help maximise your safety while travelling in Iceland and limit the chances of ever finding yourself in a tight corner. Here are a few reminders when travelling during summer:
1. If you plan to hike in remote areas, leave a detailed travel plan on the website safetravel.is.
2. Have a SPOT satellite device or a GPS device when travelling in the countryside or the central highlands. These small, life-saving devices have aided rescue teams in swiftly locating a person in distress.
3. Pack the appropriate equipment for your trip. The best philosophy when travelling in Iceland is hope for the best, but dress for the worst. Use waterproof bags for your clothes and gear and always try out new equipment before you head off.
4. Most mountain roads are closed for summer traffic until early July because of bad conditions. The narrow gravel roads turn into muddy quagmires when thawing out after a hard winter. The terrain is difficult to travel across and only meant for vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive.
5. Narrow bends, blind rises, loose gravel, deep potholes, and dodgy road margins can pose a risk when driving on gravel roads. It’s crucial to keep well to the right when navigating these roads.
6. Use common sense when travelling in Iceland: Take note of information screens and warning signs and stay safe.
7. Lastly, be informed! Seek information on the area before you set off. Keep up-to-date on road conditions by visiting the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration’s website and follow the weather forecast diligently.
