Guardia di Finanza implements new rescue cost regulations

The Guardia di Finanza has implemented new regulations regarding search and rescue operations in Italy. Under these rules, individuals who cause an emergency through voluntary actions, gross negligence, or unjustified requests may be held liable for the costs of the intervention. The Ministry of Economy and Finance has established a tariff system for the use of personnel and equipment, with high-cost assets such as helicopters potentially costing up to 4,000 euros per hour and turboprop aircraft exceeding 5,000 euros per hour.

The policy emphasizes that rescue services remain a priority and will not be delayed for financial verification. Assistance is provided immediately to anyone in real danger. The assessment of responsibility and potential billing occurs only after the operation is concluded. The objective is to prevent the misuse of limited public resources, such as drones, helicopters, and specialized units, which could otherwise be unavailable for genuine emergencies.

In separate incidents, maritime safety remains a concern in various Italian regions. In Camogli, a 35-year-old tourist died after being caught in rocks by waves during a dive. A similar incident in Riomaggiore left a 26-year-old injured. Meanwhile, in the Lazio region, a network of over 120 lifesavers has been utilizing digital coordination to assist beachgoers and locate missing children.