In Catalonia, firefighters are urging walkers, hikers and other outdoor users to plan mountain trips carefully after a rise in rescue operations. The Bombers de la Generalitat say they carried out 1,867 rescues in 2025, with 1,194 of them in mountain areas.
The service says the increase has been especially clear since the pandemic. It adds that Catalonia’s natural spaces attract many summer activities, but many of them take place on difficult terrain where prevention matters most. The key message is simple, prepare properly, carry the right equipment and make sure you are fit for the activity.
Before setting out, the Bombers advise checking the weather forecast and any likely changes. If conditions are not suitable, the safest option is to delay or cancel the outing. They also recommend planning the route in advance, including distance, height gain, difficulty and estimated time, and telling someone your itinerary if you are going alone. For more local coverage, see our news page.
Equipment should match both the activity and the season. Firefighters recommend warm and waterproof clothing, suitable footwear, water, energy foods, a torch or headlamp, and a fully charged mobile phone. In summer, carrying enough water is especially important, along with being ready for high temperatures during physical activity.
While on the route, the Bombers say people should stay on marked paths, respect warning signs and keep visual or verbal contact with others in the group. They also advise noting reference points for orientation and avoiding leaving marked trails, especially if fog appears or night falls. Regular hydration and energy foods can help reduce fatigue.
If an accident or emergency happens, call 112 straight away. Emergency services need the exact location, the number and age of those affected, the condition of any injured people and the weather conditions. The Bombers say that if you become disoriented, or if night is approaching, you should stop and wait in a safe, sheltered place for rescue teams.
The Generalitat de Catalunya says individual responsibility and self-protection are the best ways to reduce accidents. More information on emergency calls is available from 112 Catalunya and general mountain safety guidance can be found through the Department of the Interior.