Mountain rescuers from France, Italy and Switzerland coordinate joint operations near Mont Blanc
The 42nd tripartite meeting of mountain rescuers from France, Italy and Switzerland took place in Courmayeur in the Aosta Valley. The main topic of the two-day meeting was the establishment of direct radio communication between helicopter crews and the harmonization of procedures. The field part of the training was carried out at an altitude of over 2000 meters near the Pavillon station of the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car.
During the exercise, French experts from the High Mountain Gendarmerie Platoon (PGHM) from Chamonix presented the AIGLE artificial intelligence program, which accelerates the search for missing people using drone images. In addition, rescuers tested experimental oxygen masks designed for use directly during physical exertion, which allows to speed up the movement of hiking groups and alleviate the condition of victims in the highlands.
The authorities of the Valle d'Aosta region and the heads of rescue services have announced the preparation of a joint European charter of intent. The agreement should simplify bureaucratic formalities for the cross-border movement of helicopters and personnel in the event of large-scale ski lift accidents, the elimination of the consequences of earthquakes or the breakthrough of glacial lakes.
Sources: Comment les secours en montagne veulent mieux coordonner les opérations autour du Mont-Blanc entre France, Suisse et ItaCorroborating source 1Corroborating source 2
Context
Trilateral meetings of rescuers from the three countries have been ongoing for over 40 years, ensuring coordination of actions in shared Alpine border areas.