Iceland, a breathtaking island known as the “land of ice and fire,” is home to stunning natural landscapes that are as dangerous as they are beautiful. Despite being only half the size of the Korean Peninsula, 80% of Iceland’s terrain is covered by glaciers, lakes, and lava fields.
The name “Iceland” is tied to its geography. According to legend, Norse Vikings named it “land of ice” (ice + land) after encountering the fjords filled with icebergs upon their arrival.
Situated on the boundary of Earth’s tectonic plates, Iceland boasts over 30 volcanoes and Europe’s largest glacier. This location makes its natural beauty inherently hazardous, with unpredictable volcanic eruptions and massive snow avalanches posing constant threats. The coexistence of Iceland’s majestic scenery and its potential dangers reflects the island’s origin, born from the eruption of vast quantities of magma.
The meeting of warm winds heated by the Earth’s geothermal activity and cold winds from the Arctic creates Iceland’s variable climate. Sudden storms can disrupt serene lakes, and splendid snowy mountains can quickly collapse into fierce blizzards. The Atlantic Ocean’s waves are perilously high, making swimming risky and often leading to maritime accidents.
Due to these unpredictable and harsh conditions, Iceland’s search and rescue teams receive thousands of emergency calls annually.
Founded in 1999, the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR) is a dedicated organization that responds to emergencies both on land and at sea. With about 100 rescue teams and 4,000 volunteers spread across Iceland, ICE-SAR plays a crucial role in rescuing those in peril. Remarkably, all these rescuers are volunteers, a testament to the Icelandic people’s pride in and respect for their search and rescue teams.
ICE-SAR’s volunteers undergo rigorous training to handle the island’s diverse and challenging emergencies. They are prepared to tackle situations ranging from avalanches and volcanic eruptions to maritime rescues and search missions for lost hikers. Their commitment and bravery exemplify the Icelandic spirit of community and resilience in the face of nature’s formidable forces.
Iceland’s stunning but treacherous landscapes demand a highly skilled search and rescue operation. The Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue, known as ICE-SAR, is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to saving lives in perilous conditions.
Although ICE-SAR operates with volunteers, joining the team requires more than just willingness. Prospective rescuers must undergo extensive training to master the skills and survival techniques necessary for effective rescue operations. The training program is systematic and rigorous, ensuring that each volunteer is fully prepared for the challenges they will face.
New recruits join existing rescue teams, gaining hands-on experience in real-life rescue situations. They learn first aid, rescue techniques, and how to navigate using only GPS and a compass. Training also includes extreme survival scenarios, such as camping in deep snow during winter or diving into the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Completing this comprehensive training, which lasts around two years, is mandatory to become a certified ICE-SAR rescuer.
ICE-SAR maintains a state of emergency readiness throughout the year. Whether it’s locals or tourists in need, the team responds immediately to distress calls. In cases of severe weather causing people to become stranded, they may conduct searches that last from a few hours to several days. ICE-SAR works closely with the police, fire departments, and hospitals to provide emergency medical support. They also rescue livestock, which can become stranded due to Iceland’s unpredictable weather.
Given the island’s volatile climate, it is not uncommon for livestock such as sheep, horses, and cattle to be left vulnerable during sudden weather changes. Thus, ICE-SAR plays a crucial role in ensuring their safety as well.
Iceland’s rapidly changing weather means that anyone can find themselves in unexpected danger. For this reason, it’s crucial for travelers to inform others of their whereabouts and plans. This practice helps ensure that rescue operations can be initiated promptly if an emergency arises.
ICE-SAR’s dedication and expertise make it an indispensable part of Icelandic life, safeguarding both residents and visitors against the island’s natural hazards. The volunteers’ commitment to rigorous training and their readiness to respond to any emergency exemplify the spirit of resilience and community that defines Iceland.
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