The Kerry Mountain Rescue Team dealt with 57 call-outs in 2022 which amounted to over 3,100 hours on voluntary rescue work.
While the number of emergency situations was down on 2021 figures, total call-out hours have risen due to the nature and complexity of a number of the incidents handled during the year.
The majority of call-outs were to the McGillycuddy’s Reeks with a number of other situations on the Dingle and Beara peninsulas.
Team PRO Colm Burke said slips, falls and lost parties again accounted for the vast majority of incidents and though accidents happen to even the most experienced mountaineers, the main trend in incidents involved a significant number of inexperienced and ill-equipped parties on the hills.
“We would strongly advise people new to the mountains to ensure they research their chosen activity well in advance and employ the services of a guide or join a club to learn the skills required for a safe and enjoyable adventure,” Colm said.
Additional information on mountain safety can be found at https://kerrymountainrescue.ie/mountain-safety/.
In addition to call-outs the team continued to train regularly throughout the year, logging over 2,300 hours and ensuring that essential core skills such as first aid, casualty care and evacuation, technical rope work, navigation and radio communications were refreshed and newer skills and techniques well-practiced in the harshest weather conditions.
THE RESCUE TEAM YEAR AT A GLANCE
Responses to calls for assistance: 57
People assisted: 71
Fatalities in the mountains: 1
Rescue hours: 3,100+
Team training tours: 2,300
Volunteer members 38
A highlight of 2022 was the recent commencement of the extension to the team’s base at New Road, Killarney which will provide much-needed extra facilities including additional equipment storage space, a drying room and meeting room, all of which will enhance the team’s operational capabilities.
Colm Burke said: “We would like to extend a sincere thanks to all those who have donated funds to the team over the year. The team relies heavily on donations to meet our annual running costs and we very
much appreciate the effort that donors and fundraisers make in this regard”.
He said, As well as contributing to regular running costs, fundraising efforts by individuals and local businesses in 2022 have allowed the mountain rescue unit to procure additional technical and medical equipment, including the addition of a new stretcher and technical equipment for hauling and lowering stretchers, ensuring that the team is equipped to the highest standards for the year ahead.
“A huge thanks to the local communities who came out in force to support the team during a number of difficult operations, opening their doors at all hours of the day and night to provide warm drinks and food to very grateful rescuers. We cannot thank you enough for your kindness and support,” the team said in a statement.
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