Safetravel
For safe returning
Independent associations have an extensive role in prevention and rescue in Iceland. Thousands of volunteers dedicate themselves to work for the ICE-SAR rescue teams, accident prevention divisions and youth sections. Their joint mission is to prevent accidents and save human lives and valuables. Extensive groups of volunteers are always available, night and day, all year round.
The webpage Safetravel is run by ICE-SAR and is part of a bigger project in which a number of companies, public institutions and individuals combine their effort in order to reduce the risk of accidents in travelling and tourism in Iceland. The Icelandic Meteorological Office has supported the Safetravel project since its beginning in 2010.
ICE-SAR's office leads the project with the help of many SAR team members as well as others with thorough experience in travelling in Iceland in different conditions. Safetravel is supported by a number of sponsoring companies.
SOS Iceland app
The newest option is SOS Iceland, an app which is easy to use. It can be used in emergency, if an accident occurs or if someone is lost. Tourist can also leave their "trail" in case of search. The SOS Iceland app is available for both Android and iPhone.
SOS Iceland should not be used as the only telecommunications equipment. Based on coverage and conditions it is possible that a satellite phone is needed. In many rural areas, as well as the highlands, there is no mobile coverage. Nothing can replace the safe measure of leaving a travel plan behind.
Travel Plan
One of the most important things to do when preparing a journey is to make a detailed travel plan and leave with someone who can act if needed. Travel plan should always include the following information:
- Date of travel, departure time and arrival time
- Name of those who travel, phone number or other telecommunication
- Accommodation (GPS coordinates) and other places you plan to visit/stop at
- Few words about the equipment
- Plan B
Travellers can leave their travel plan with ICE-SAR, provided it includes a contact or relative whose responsibility is to alert ICE-SAR if the travellers do not arrive at the right time. ICE-SAR also provides a more extensive service with shared responsibility, for further information see their web-page.
