Daring Mountain Rescue Occurs at Elevated Heights, Putting Life on the Line

The Mexican Mountain Rescue Brigade, a volunteer organisation dedicated to saving lives in the country's treacherous terrains, has been in operation for nearly eight decades. With over 270 members, the brigade faces numerous challenges, including improvised excursions, abandonment of clients, and negative comments on social media.

Recently, the brigade paid tribute to one of its fallen heroes, Augusto Pellet, a member of the Alpine Rescue, who lost his life in an accident on Pico de Orizaba in 1956. Pellet passed away two weeks after the accident. His sacrifice was acknowledged by the Mountain Rescue, highlighting the risks rescuers take in their duty.

The rescue of Samaniego and Tobella, who went missing on Pico de Orizaba, is another example of the brigade's relentless efforts. The operation involved patrols from the Mountain Rescue, Aero Club, and the Mexican High Mountain Group (GAMM), and took eight patrols and three full days to complete. Tragically, the remains of Samaniego and Tobella were found in March 1956.

Enrique Chávez Poupard, a prominent figure in the brigade, was interviewed by Markus Neubauer in recent years. He spoke about the challenges faced by the brigade, such as the lack of continuity by authorities and the need for more resources.

Members of the Rescue Brigade are volunteers who pay an annual fee of 350 pesos to join, with additional costs for uniforms. Each rescuer must devote at least one weekend a month to monitor assigned points in the Iztaccihuatl-Popocatépetl National Park. Despite the risks involved, the brigade continues to attract volunteers, a testament to their dedication and commitment.

However, the brigade is not always spared from the negligence of hikers. There have always been cases of hikers ignoring the indications of Alpine Rescue, causing accidents that the rescuers themselves have to attend to. The Mexican Sports Confederation has banned the ascent to high peaks without prior permission from the Mexican Federation of Hiking, aiming to reduce such incidents.

The emergency phone line is the most common way to report a search and rescue situation. Upon receiving an alert call, the operator of the Mountain Rescue Brigade investigates the incident's veracity and other necessary details while alerting the immediate response volunteer group about the impending search task. The brigade consists of eight patrols for the Metropolitan Area and three delegations in the interior of the republic.

Regrettably, the sacrifices made by the members of the Mexican Mountain Rescue Brigade are not without loss. At least three volunteers have lost their lives while performing their duty. Despite these tragedies, the brigade continues to serve, demonstrating a resilience and determination that is truly inspiring.

In memory of Augusto Pellet and all the brave rescuers who have given their lives in the service of others, the Mexican Mountain Rescue Brigade continues its vital work, ensuring that those who find themselves in peril on the country's mountains can count on help from dedicated volunteers.