Madeira tourists to pay for risky rescue operations
The authorities of Madeira have introduced new regulations that will charge tourists for the costs of rescue operations if their own actions lead to dangerous situations. It is emphasized that these decisions are driven by the need to save money, as an hour-long rescue operation involving a helicopter and two pilots costs over $1,300.
New regulations have been implemented in Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, targeting tourists who require rescue assistance due to irresponsible behavior. According to the new regulations, tourists who ignore warnings or leave designated trails will be responsible for covering the costs of their rescue operations.
Irresponsible behavior will lighten tourists' wallets
The authorities of Madeira highlight that the decision to introduce these regulations is due to necessary cost-saving measures. The expense of an hour-long rescue operation involving a helicopter and two pilots exceeds $1,300.
Interestingly, the new regulations do not apply to residents of the tourist island.
Rescue operations in Madeira
Over the past year, several rescue operations have been conducted in Madeira, including a mission to rescue a Polish couple stranded on a cliff at Ponta do Pargo. This operation required the use of a helicopter from the neighboring island of Porto Santo.
One recent incident occurred on January 3rd, when a Polish couple had to spend the night in a cave due to the tide. Rescuers from four Portuguese formations concluded the operation the following day with the support of a helicopter.
The new regulations aim to discourage tourists from taking risky actions that may lead to dangerous situations requiring rescue intervention. The authorities of Madeira hope that imposing financial penalties will reduce the number of such incidents.
