Dizziness in the mountains: an underestimated risk for cross-border workers

Context

In brief

• 29% of hikers suffer from vertigo
• Only 18% consider vertigo an important requirement
• 40,000 people need medical care annually

Key facts

• What: UPI survey on vertigo in the mountains
• When: May 7, 2026
• Where: Over 20 locations in the Confederation
• Who: UPI (Swiss Council for Accident Prevention)
• Amount: 29% of hikers suffer from vertigo
• Amount: 18% consider vertigo an important requirement
• Amount: 40,000 people need medical care annually

The hiking season has already started for many Swiss cross-border workers, but a risk often underestimated is vertigo. According to a survey conducted by the Swiss Council for Accident Prevention (UPI), almost one third of hikers suffer from fear of heights and vertigo. This data emerges from a survey that involved 1,387 hikers in over 20 locations in the Confederation. Despite the risk, only 18% of those surveyed consider the absence of vertigo an important requirement for going to the mountains.

UPI warns that fear of heights compromises safety during walks and significantly increases the risk of falls. According to the entity, not suffering from vertigo is a necessary condition to face high-altitude routes. Most hikers indicate as fundamental requirements adequate shoes (70%), good physical condition (56%) and a sure step (32%).

Planning hikes

In planning a mountain hike, most people take into account factors such as the weather, the total distance to be covered and the elevation gain. However, they often overlook the danger of the chosen route. UPI reminds us that the hiking trail should be suitable for one's own abilities. In case of doubt, the principle applies: 'Turning back should not be considered a failure, but the right approach to adopt in the mountains.'

Every year, about 40,000 people need medical care following an accident during a hike, and 45 people lose their lives. These numbers underline the importance of carefully considering one's own limits and physical condition before undertaking a mountain hike.

Implications for cross-border workers

For cross-border workers living in Italy and working in Switzerland, mountain hikes are a very popular activity. However, it is essential to be aware of the risks related to vertigo and fear of heights. Before undertaking a hike, it is important to assess one's own abilities and choose suitable routes. In addition, it is advisable to inform oneself about the weather conditions and any trail closures.

In case of doubt, do not hesitate to consult a doctor or a mountain expert to obtain personalized advice. Remember that safety always comes first, and that turning back is not a failure, but a wise choice.

What to do in case of vertigo

If you suffer from vertigo, there are some precautions you can take to reduce the risk of accidents. First of all, choose routes that do not present exposed or vertiginous stretches. In addition, make sure you have adequate equipment, such as hiking shoes with anti-slip soles and trekking poles. Finally, do not hesitate to ask for advice from experienced mountain guides or to participate in hiking courses to improve your skills.

If you have specific questions about mountain hikes or vertigo, do not hesitate to contact UPI or consult their website for further information. Remember that prevention is fundamental to fully enjoy the wonders of nature in complete safety.

For cross-border workers who wish to plan their mountain hikes, it is possible to use the excursion calculator available on the Frontaliere Ticino website. This tool will help you assess your abilities and choose the route most suitable for your needs.

Operational details

Practical Analysis: Implications for Cross-Border Workers

Vertigo in the mountains represents a significant risk for hikers, including cross-border workers who live in Italy and work in Switzerland. According to the UPI survey, nearly one-third of hikers suffer from a fear of heights and vertigo. This data is particularly relevant for cross-border workers, who often go hiking in the mountains during weekends or holidays.

Comparisons Before and After the Survey

Before this survey, the risk of vertigo in the mountains was often underestimated. Many hikers did not consider vertigo as an important factor in planning their hikes. However, the UPI data has highlighted that vertigo can compromise safety and increase the risk of falls. This shift in perspective is fundamental for cross-border workers, who must be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions.

Concrete Scenarios

Imagine two scenarios: a cross-border worker who suffers from vertigo and one who does not. The first might choose less exposed and safer routes, while the second might tackle more challenging paths. However, both must be aware of their limits and weather conditions. In case of doubt, it is always better to turn back and choose an alternative route.

Comparison Between Safe and Dangerous Paths

Here is a comparative table between safe and dangerous paths:

Practical Tips

For cross-border workers who want to tackle mountain hikes safely, here are some practical tips:

1. Assess your abilities: Before embarking on a hike, assess your physical and technical abilities. Choose routes suitable for your level of experience. 2. Check weather conditions: Always check the weather forecast before setting off. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. 3. Adequate equipment: Make sure you have adequate equipment, such as hiking shoes with anti-slip soles, trekking poles, and clothing suitable for the weather conditions. 4. Route planning: Plan your route in detail, taking into account the distance, elevation gain, and danger level of the path. Use maps and hiking guides to help you plan. 5. Do not hesitate to ask for advice: If you have doubts about your ability to tackle a particular route, do not hesitate to ask for advice from experienced mountain guides or to participate in hiking courses.

Use of the Hiking Calculator

To help cross-border workers plan their mountain hikes, you can use the hiking calculator available on the Frontaliere Ticino website. This tool will help you assess your abilities and choose the route most suitable for your needs. Enter the details of your route and get an evaluation of the difficulty level and associated risks.

Comparison with the Previous Situation

Before this survey, many hikers did not consider vertigo as an important factor in planning their hikes. However, the UPI data has highlighted that vertigo can compromise safety and increase the risk of falls. This shift in perspective is fundamental for cross-border workers, who must be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions.

Conclusion

Vertigo in the mountains represents a significant risk for hikers, including cross-border workers. It is fundamental to be aware of your limits and weather conditions before embarking on a hike. Use the hiking calculator available on the Frontaliere Ticino website to plan your hikes safely.

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Key points

Concrete actions for cross-border workers

For cross-border workers who want to tackle mountain hikes safely, it's important to follow some concrete procedures. Here's a step-by-step guide to planning your hike:

1. Assess your abilities: Before embarking on a hike, assess your physical and technical abilities. Choose routes suitable for your level of experience. 2. Check weather conditions: Always check the weather forecast before you leave. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. 3. Adequate equipment: Make sure you have adequate equipment, such as hiking shoes with anti-slip soles, trekking poles, and clothing suitable for the weather conditions. 4. Route planning: Plan your route in detail, taking into account the distance, elevation gain, and danger of the route. Use maps and hiking guides to help you plan. 5. Don't hesitate to ask for advice: If you have doubts about your ability to tackle a particular route, don't hesitate to ask for advice from experienced mountain guides or to participate in hiking courses. 6. Use the hiking calculator: To help cross-border workers plan their mountain hikes, you can use the hiking calculator available on the Frontaliere Ticino website. This tool will help you assess your abilities and choose the route most suitable for your needs.

Deadlines and procedures

There are no specific deadlines for mountain hikes, but it's important to plan ahead and be aware of the weather conditions. Here are some procedures to follow:

1. Check the weather forecast: Before you leave, always check the weather forecast to make sure the conditions are favorable. 2. Inform someone of your route: Let someone know your route and the expected time of return. This is essential in case of emergency. 3. Bring an emergency kit: Make sure you have an emergency kit with you, which includes water, food, a torch, a first aid kit, and a charged mobile phone. 4. Respect danger signs: During the hike, always respect danger signs and follow the indications of the signs. 5. Turn back if in doubt: If you have doubts about your ability to tackle a particular section of the route, don't hesitate to turn back. Safety always comes first.

Useful tools

For cross-border workers who want to plan their mountain hikes, here are some useful tools:

1. Hiking calculator: Use the hiking calculator available on the Frontaliere Ticino website to assess your abilities and choose the route most suitable for your needs. 2. Maps and hiking guides: Use maps and hiking guides to plan your route in detail. 3. Weather apps: Use weather apps to check the weather forecast before you leave. 4. Emergency kit: Make sure you have an emergency kit with you, which includes water, food, a torch, a first aid kit, and a charged mobile phone.

Conclusion

Vertigo in the mountains represents a significant risk for hikers, including cross-border workers. It is essential to be aware of your limits and the weather conditions before embarking on a hike. Use the hiking calculator available on the Frontaliere Ticino website to plan your hikes safely. Remember that safety always comes first, and that turning back is not a failure, but a wise choice.

For further information and advice, do not hesitate to contact the UPI or to consult their website. Happy hiking!

Source: tvsvizzera.it