Rescue on La Concha

A Dutch man in his middle age was rescued by a rescuer on La Concha Mountain, which overlooks Marbella, from a treacherous area near a sheer drop cliff. 

Due to the dangerous terrain and the worsening weather, the Marbella Fire Department’s daring rescue operation lasted nearly four hours. The hiker who had wandered off the path was stranded and unable to return. He was also showing signs of hypothermia. Fortunately, the hiker survived without any significant injuries.

The hiker called 112 when he was scared and shaken. The call, which was relayed quickly to Marbella’s Fire Station, led to the deployment of three rescuers. Marbella Council said that the man was stuck in a dangerous and precarious area. This made it difficult to reach him. A bleak and increasingly dark weather exacerbated the problem.

The firefighters were able make contact by phone with the hiker and gave him instructions on how to remain calm. They also urged him to stay in his spot. After hours of navigation, they reached the man and used ropes to lift him from his inaccessible location. He was hypothermic due to his prolonged exposure to the elements, but medics confirmed that he wasn’t injured.

Rescues like this one, which mostly involved foreigners, have occurred in the last week, show how dangerous climbing can be.

Ten Safety Tips for Hiking La Concha

1. Hiking can be a rewarding experience, but there are risks involved. Follow these safety tips to ensure a safe trip.
2. Research the trail’s difficulty, distance and weather conditions beforehand. You should also research the weather and distance of the trail. 
3. Share your itinerary and return time with someone so that they can know where you’re at. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting into trouble or wandering off to dangerous places such as unstable terrain or cliffs.
4. Dress appropriately by wearing shoes with good grip and sturdy soles, and layering clothing to adapt to the changing weather. 
5. Bring a map, compass, or GPS device—don’t rely solely on your phone, as batteries die and signals fade. 
6. Even for day hikes, carry enough water, energy snacks, a Swiss Army Knife, a first aid kit, and a flashlight.
7. Do not risk your time to complete the walk by not checking the weather forecast. In the mountains or near the sea, the weather can quickly change. Early start will give you plenty of time to get back. If conditions worsen, be ready to turn back – safety trumps summiting.
8. Keep an eye on your surroundings. Be on the lookout for wildlife, trail markers and sudden drops. When hiking alone, maintain a steady pace to conserve energy. Stick together in a group and communicate.
9. Know your limits. Select trails that are suitable for your level of fitness and experience. If you’re feeling tired or unwell, take a break or rest.
10. In case of an emergency, carry a whistle, and if you are in Europe, a mobile phone.