Canary Islands officials have expressed concern over the actions of tourists who are disregarding safety advisories, which has resulted in a rising number of emergency operations. General Director of Emergencies, Fernando Figuereo, mentioned that the high costs associated with emergency rescues, such as using a rescue helicopter that can exceed $2,000 for just an hour, may lead to fines imposed on guests who act recklessly. He stressed that the fines would not target individuals who experience accidents unintentionally, but rather those who ignore safety warnings, like disregarding red flag warnings at beaches that lead to dangerous situations.

The call for fines stems from a commitment to ensure the safety of all visitors and to reduce the financial burden placed on emergency services due to reckless tourist behavior. This perspective considers the reality that emergency operations are a significant expense to local authorities, further emphasizing the need for tourists to be conscientious about their actions while enjoying the natural beauty of the islands. Officials have indicated that a strengthened police presence will be implemented across the islands to ensure that safety regulations are followed, potentially acting as a deterrent against reckless behavior.

Ultimately, this move not only seeks to protect tourists but also aims to safeguard the resources of emergency services from being stretched thin by preventable incidents. Local authorities hope that by making tourists aware of the financial implications of their reckless actions, they will foster a greater sense of responsibility among visitors, ensuring that their experiences in the Canary Islands remain enjoyable and safe for everyone involved.