Italian Alpine Rescue Urges Correct 112 Use Following Matese Hiker Rescue

The National Alpine Rescue Service (Soccorso Alpino) in Italy has issued a public appeal urging hikers and other mountain users to reserve the emergency number 112 for genuine emergencies only. Operators report a growing number of non‑urgent calls—such as requests for taxis or transport to hotels—which divert resources from real life‑threatening situations.

In a recent incident, two 21‑year‑old hikers from Naples became lost after dark on the Matese mountains near Campitello Matese. They activated 112, prompting the Central Emergency Response to mobilise Carabinieri, the 118 operative centre, and the Alpine Rescue team. Using a Can‑Am off‑road vehicle and a subsequent foot approach, rescuers reached the hikers, assessed their health—found them in good condition—and escorted them safely back along the trail. The operation concluded in the early hours of the morning with the hikers reunited with family in Roccamandolfi.