HGSS: 75% of Those Rescued Are Domestic Visitors
HGSS member Petar Prpić revealed on HRT's Studio 4 that the public's perception of rescuing foreign tourists in flip-flops does not match the actual numbers.
HGSS member Petar Prpić revealed on HRT's Studio 4 that the public's perception of rescuing foreign tourists in flip-flops does not match the actual numbers.
Croatia's Mountain Rescue Service (HGSS) is out in the field every day during the summer season, and according to Petar Prpić, an HGSS member, they average three to four operations daily. Appearing on HRT's Studio 4 on August 13, 2026, Prpić described how this year's rescue season is unfolding.
"Summer is intense, but nothing we're not used to by now. HGSS members are out every day, and we have three to four operations daily. We're here 24/7, as always," Prpić told HRT.
Prpić addressed the common public perception that HGSS most often rescues foreign tourists who venture onto demanding mountain terrain in inappropriate footwear. However, the numbers tell a completely different story. According to data presented by Prpić, as many as 75 percent of those rescued are Croatian citizens, while foreigners in flip-flops are a rarity-accounting for less than one percent of all interventions. "The public perception is that it's mostly foreigners in flip-flops, but the numbers say otherwise. 75 percent of those rescued by HGSS are Croatian citizens. Flip-flops are an urban myth. Of course, we always have things that surprise us, but they account for less than one percent," Prpić stated.
So, three-quarters of all rescued individuals are domestic citizens, while cases that truly surprise rescuers, such as foreigners in flip-flops, make up less than one percent of total interventions. This statistic debunks the myth of irresponsible tourists and highlights the need for domestic hikers to also be aware of the risks.
Among the most common reasons for HGSS to be deployed are mountain accidents, dehydration and exhaustion, and searches for missing persons. Prpić explained that an increasing number of people are venturing into unurbanized and hard-to-reach areas, leading to a higher number of accidents. Remote locations without mobile network coverage or quick road access pose a particular risk, complicating rescue operations themselves.
Statistics show that the volume of engagements is slowly increasing year after year, which Prpić attributes to the large number of visitors coming to Croatia. He emphasized that HGSS's work is not limited to rescues alone. "In addition to daily interventions, HGSS invests heavily in prevention, trail mapping, personal training, and education. The scope of work is much broader when compared to just the interventions we have," he pointed out.
Prpić warned that being unprepared primarily means a lack of water, a dead phone battery, and inappropriate clothing and footwear. Before heading out for a hike, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the planned route, check weather conditions, and inform loved ones of your itinerary. "That way, you reduce the chances of something happening to you. Of course, accidents happen even to the most equipped and prepared, but the law of large numbers speaks for itself," Prpić concluded.
HGSS also emphasizes the importance of carrying sufficient water and food, as well as a charged phone, and specifically warns against the dangers of starting late and ignoring signs of exhaustion. In case of health issues or losing your bearings, it's recommended to stop immediately and seek help, as every minute counts in rescue operations.
