The principle of free mountain rescue has long been a cornerstone of outdoor safety in France. However, recent statements by Minister François-Noël Buffet have reignited debate about whether this "unconditional" service should remain so for everyone. Speaking in Haute-Savoie during discussions on civil security, Buffet raised the possibility of "exceptions" for those who knowingly engage in risky or prohibited behavior in the mountains.
Balancing Freedom and Responsibility In his remarks, Minister Buffet emphasized the importance of free rescue services as a societal principle but noted that cases of deliberate negligence might warrant re-evaluation. "When people knowingly ignore restrictions or warnings, leading to accidents that put rescuers at risk, it's worth questioning whether they should bear some responsibility," he stated.
The debate comes in the wake of several high-profile incidents. For instance, in the Aillons-Margériaz ski resort, a group of 30 ski tourers defied local bans to enjoy a moonlit ski session on closed slopes, forcing groomers to halt their operations. Such behavior, categorized as a "deliberate violation of safety regulations," highlights the tension between personal freedom and collective safety.
Free vs. Paid Rescue: A Complex Landscape
Currently the French system for mountain rescue is nuanced. While medicalized rescues typically incur a fee, non-medicalized rescues—often involving helicopters—are free and funded by taxpayers. The cost of a rescue helicopter, averaging €80–90 per minute, underscores the financial burden of these operations. Yet, in cases like the recent rescue of eight skiers and snowboarders stranded between France and Italy after ignoring advice to stay put, the principle of free rescue remains intact. The skiers had missed the last lift from la Thuile back to France. They were two distinct groups of English and Austrialians. The English group were accompanied by a ski instructor, himself English. They tried to reach France by an off piste route against the advice of the piste patrol. After completing a part of the route they were forced to call mountain rescue at the Col de la Traversette. A delicate rescue operation in the dark requiring two rotations in strong winds with the danger of high tension power lines
Stéphanie Baudot, an Albertville-based lawyer specializing in mountain law, explained that ski resorts often cover rescue costs for incidents on managed slopes and pass this onto the rescued party who will often pay via insurance. However, challenges arise when skiers exploit insurance policies to avoid paying for avoidable rescues. "Instead of taking courses to improve their skills, some rely on insurance to be rescued when they get stuck," she noted.
International Practices: A Look Beyond France
Countries like Italy, Spain, and Switzerland adopt a stricter approach. In Italy's Aosta Valley, for example, "comfort rescues" are billed to the individuals involved. This system places financial responsibility on those who knowingly take risks, a stark contrast to France's current model.
Could France follow suit?
Minister Buffet’s comments suggest that the idea is not off the table, especially for cases of blatant negligence.
The Path Forward As mountain activities grow in popularity, ensuring safety while managing costs remains a delicate balance. Advocates for maintaining free rescue services argue that financial penalties could discourage people from calling for help in genuine emergencies. Critics, however, contend that a system of accountability could reduce reckless behavior.
For now, the principle of free mountain rescue remains a cornerstone of French outdoor culture. Yet, as Minister Buffet's remarks indicate, the debate is far from over. The challenge lies in crafting a policy that preserves the spirit of solidarity while encouraging responsibility among mountain enthusiasts.