Successful Joint Rescue Operation Saves Injured Tourist in Favignana

 A Joint Rescue Operation by the Sicilian Alpine and Speleological Rescue (SASS) and the 82nd CSAR of the Italian Air Force has successfully rescued a young tourist who was injured after falling from a cliff on the island of Favignana.

The accident occurred in the picturesque area of Cala Rossa when the 25-year-old woman from Caltanissetta was enjoying her vacation on the island with a group of friends. During a descent along the cliff, she unfortunately lost her balance and fell approximately 4 meters, sustaining serious injuries to her spine and head.

Immediately, her friends alerted the Unified Emergency Number 112, concerned about her condition. The 118 emergency call center promptly requested the intervention of the Alpine Rescue, known for its competence and professionalism in emergency situations in mountainous and rugged environments.

Due to the rugged nature of the area and the prohibitive weather conditions associated with high temperatures, the Alpine Rescue decided to involve the Italian Air Force, with whom they have collaborated for a long time, for a coordinated operation.

An HH 139B helicopter from the 82nd CSAR took off from Trapani Birgi airport, carrying two helicopter rescue technicians from the SASS on board. In just a few minutes, the helicopter reached the scene of the accident, where 118 paramedics were already present on the island.

The technicians from the Alpine Rescue and the Air Force, along with the helicopter rescuer, quickly reached the young woman, stabilizing her with a neck brace and placing her on a spinal board. With great skill and speed, they hoisted her aboard the helicopter using the winch, ensuring her safe transport.

After the timely transfer, the helicopter landed the injured tourist at the helipad of Sant'Antonio Abate Hospital in Trapani, where she was immediately taken care of by medical staff.

A heartfelt thank you was expressed to the rescuers from the Sicilian Alpine and Speleological Rescue and the 82nd CSAR of the Italian Air Force for their promptness and skill in the rescue operation, which saved a precious life.

The incident in Favignana serves as a somber reminder of the importance of being cautious and attentive during excursions in mountainous, rugged, and challenging environments. In case of emergency, it is essential to immediately call the Unified Emergency Number 112 and specify the need for medical rescue in a mountain or rugged environment. The operator of #NUE112 will transfer the call to the 118 Emergency Call Center, which will coordinate the intervention of the Alpine and Speleological Rescue (CNSAS) to ensure the safe recovery of people in distress.