Andorra Fire Service Conducts Mountain Rescue Training at Percanela Peak

Andorra's Fire Service Mountain Rescue Group and medical unit held a physical and technical refresher session on Monday at Percanela peak in La Massana. The training focused on maintaining and strengthening operational capacity for high-mountain interventions, where difficult terrain and weather often pose significant challenges.

The day started with an ascent of around 1,000 metres of positive elevation gain, a routine part of the specialists' physical preparation. This opening phase helps ensure teams sustain optimal endurance for extended operations in demanding conditions.

Responders then carried out multiple helicopter hoisting exercises in varied operational scenarios, supported by Heliand. Such drills help solidify aerial evacuation procedures and enhance coordination among participants, where quick response times and accuracy are essential for those in distress.

Participants also gained practical experience with the recently introduced Recco SAR system, a reflector technology that aids in locating missing people over large areas. Teams stressed that hands-on practice is key to embedding the system fully into routine mountain search and rescue procedures, according to details shared on social media.