Training plays a central role in the South Tyrolean Mountain and Cave Rescue Service ...
Every year, candidates deemed ready are sent to the selection process by their local branch manager or technical manager. This is a kind of entry examination, in which the candidates must prove that they can move safely and independently on rock, ice and snow. Once the selection process has been passed, compulsory training follows to obtain the qualification as:
Mountain Rescuer (OSA - Operatore di Soccorso Alpino) and thus become ready for deployment. The Mountain Rescuer carries out mountain rescue operations in accordance with the instructions of the local branch manager or operations manager.
For those interested, the additional training follows the compulsory course. This consists of two qualifications and training levels:
Mountain Rescue Technician (TESA - Tecnico di Soccorso Alpino): This person carries out technical mountain rescue operations and can take on the role of operation leader.
Air Rescue Technician (TE - Tecnico di Elisoccorso): The Air Rescue Technician carries out technical mountain rescue and air rescue operations and may assume the role of incident commander.