should we be charged for mountain rescue?

wowzer · 01-08-2008, 10:25 AM

corrie last night was made around keswick mountain rescue. i am local to the area and day in day out you get prats in incorrect gear with no idea of weather conditions getting stuck up fells and putting volenteers lives at risk getting them back to there b&b....do you think there should there be a charge for the service??
honest to god, there was a group of japanese tourist last year who were found trying to go over honister pass with there pull along suit cases!!!!

M R · 01-08-2008, 10:26 AM

It's very hard reading your question. I have no idea where you at but I understand the problem. Yes, at times I do think rescue costs should be charged. Here in Michigan that does happen sometimes for ice rescue - the late winter ice fishing goofs.

On the other hand, I don't like putting any government agency in charge of making the call on applying fines. The abuse will be there as soon as the authority is.

BTW, cycling isn't the plce to post this question.

Stephen M · 01-08-2008, 10:26 AM

maybe but you couldn't really enforce it. Would be a little harsh to climb and find someone but then demand money before you rescue them.

crazeygrazey · 01-08-2008, 10:26 AM

The various mountain rescue services do it because they enjoy it. Without the lemmings they'd have nothing to do.

el cid · 01-08-2008, 10:26 AM

I once occupied a bed in hospital next to someone who was member of mountain rescue and asked him about charging victims, especially those who are ill-equipped. He firmly told me it was a bad idea. I was even more surprised when he told me that he was never paid and had to buy most of his own equipment. But he was glad to do it. That's altruism for you, and long may it live.

Lisa Hutton · 01-08-2008, 10:26 AM

Not at all.
Some people just 'go for a walk' not realising the danger they could put themselves in and i know they really should be aware and wear the correct gear but there's nothing to stop people from not.
People definitely should not be charged to be rescued.

Also, i love the lake district

i go there every year.