Struggling German Family of Five Resides in Crisis Situation in Bergnot
Family Rescued From Austrian Tennen Mountains After Rash Decision
WERFENWENG, Austria — A German family from Baden-Württemberg found themselves in distress during a challenging mountain traverse in the Tennen Mountains, Austria, on Friday. The family, consisting of parents and children aged 8, 10, and 14, set out for an approximately seven-hour hike despite advice against it from the hut keeper due to their poor equipment and the old snow fields.
The family started their hike from the Ellmau hut in Werfenweng at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, intending to reach the Solden hut via the Hochthronleiter, which is around 2,500 meters above sea level. The father repeatedly called the hut keeper throughout the day, announcing a later arrival, but by 11:00 p.m., they had reached the Tauern saddle (2,100 meters) and couldn't proceed.
Eleven mountain rescuers from the Werfen local unit were summoned and climbed to the family's location, guiding them over old snow fields to the hut by using ropes. The rescuers noted that the family was not adequately equipped, lacking rain gear, a headlamp, and a bivouac bag. The rescuers also stated that the family had been hiking for 17 hours, appearing unaware of the danger.
The operation leader, Stefan Koller, commented on the incident, stating, "They were chilled. We provided them with warm clothing at the mountain."
While the exact reasons behind the family's ill-preparedness are not clear, the incident underscores the importance of thorough planning and adherence to safety precautions when embarking on mountain hikes of this nature.
The Tennen Mountains offer a variety of hiking options, ranging from relatively easy trails to more challenging routes. Key safety precautions include checking weather forecasts, planning routes, understanding physical limitations, staying hydrated and nourished, respecting mountain hazards, being emergency-prepared, using the buddy system, and ensuring appropriate equipment.
By following these precautions and bringing the right equipment, hikers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the Tennen Mountains. For more information on safety precautions and equipment recommendations for mountain hiking in the Alps, additional resources are available.
- In light of the recent incident in the Tennen Mountains, it would be prudent for outdoor-living enthusiasts to consider equipping themselves properly for their next hiking adventure, including essential items like rain gear, a headlamp, and a bivouac bag.
- As the family's ordeal earlier this week illustrates, a more thoughtful approach to planning a mountain hike is crucial, taking into account factors such as weather forecasts, physical limitations, and mountain hazards.
- For those seeking a more engaging lifestyle, the Tennen Mountains offer a diverse range of travel, sports, and home-and-garden opportunities beyond just hiking, allowing enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the beauty of the Alps in various ways.
