The Italian Alps draw millions of visitors every year, and that means a mountain of work for local search-and-rescue teams. In the Piedmont region alone, rescuers responded to over 2,000 emergency calls in 2025.

Unlike French mountain rescuers, who are part of the military, the Italian teams are made up entirely of volunteers. Most hold regular day jobs and respond to emergency calls on a voluntary basis. If a rescue call comes in during work hours, the state covers their wages.

These rescuers, however, are highly trained specialists in mountain and cave rescue. Founded in 1954, Italy's national mountain rescue service is one of the oldest in Europe, with around 7,000 active members.

The volunteers train year-round and undergo recertification every three to five years.