ICAR / International rescue

International Commission for Mountain Rescue - ICAR

Mission: ICAR acts as a platform within which affiliated organizations share knowledge and experience with the aim of improving the technique of mountain rescue and the safety of its implementation. It is an independent, global organization that respects its member organizations and promotes international cooperation.

ICAR: ICAR brings together mountain rescuers from around the world and supports mountain rescue and related organizations. It also respects countries and their independent rescue organizations. ICAR facilitates the international integration of mountain rescue organizations. In the framework of this, experience and knowledge are spread, which enable more efficient and safe rescue. Although ICAR pays particular attention to safety and accident prevention, the organization disseminates knowledge in all areas of mountain rescue. ICAR promotes interest in mountain rescue. It is an independent organization open to everyone, regardless of gender, age, religion or country of origin. Its members show mutual respect and tolerance. Since its inception in 1948, ICAR has promoted international cooperation and emerged as one of the leading organizations in the field of mountain rescue.

Tasks: ICAR facilitates the dissemination of new knowledge among its members. Special attention is paid to rescue activities, but attention is also paid to other elements, such as first aid and the use of new technologies. The safety of mountain rescuers is the primary goal of the organization. Toward this end, ICAR encourages close collaboration with other conservation organizations. ICAR is an information platform: international integration is a prerequisite for successful operation. To achieve this goal, members use the latest technologies. ICAR is a politically neutral organization. As such, it leaves contacts with political subjects to the members themselves, but supports them in doing so. It offers help primarily by providing access to information. Cooperation with international organizations is an essential element of mountain medicine. ICAR thus undertakes to devote attention to the development of medicine aimed at supporting mountain rescue activities. Cooperation with mountaineering organizations is an important element in the prevention of mountain accidents. ICAR pays attention to prevention at the international level.

Organization: ICAR is aware that the majority of its members are charitable organizations, but it also pays attention to for-profit members, because all organizations are united by a rescue mission. The official languages ​​of the organization are English, French and German, and all members are obliged to respect linguistic plurality. Financing is regulated in the statute and other regulations and acts. ICAR is financed through membership fees, which ensure optimal functioning of the organization. ICAR is also grateful for donations. Accounting is performed in accordance with accepted standards. Although politically neutral, ICAR allows the possibility of partnerships with all entities that could positively influence the organization’s mission. The role of establishing contacts and coordination between international organizations is particularly highlighted. ICAR is an open community in which all members, regardless of their status, have access to the latest findings and knowledge. ICAR wants to grow. It is necessary to find new and motivate existing members.

Contact
ICAR Office c/o Swiss Alpine Rescue SAR, Rega-Center
P.O. box 1414
8058 Zurich-Airport, Switzerland
phone +41-44-6543554
fax +41-44-6543842
mobile +41-79-9574169
office@ikar-cisa.org
www.alpine-rescue.org