Heavy winter weather in north-west Iran has tested both travellers and emergency services, but rapid response from Iranian Red Crescent teams has limited casualties and provided vital support to those stranded by snow and blizzard conditions.
Iran winter safety advice and rescue summary
Over a two-day period in early January, teams from the Iranian Red Crescent were deployed across mountain routes in Zanjan province following severe snowfall. Operational crews responded to multiple incidents, freeing 377 people from snow and ice with 14 operational teams and 10 emergency vehicles. Eleven traffic incidents affected 39 people; 28 injured individuals were transferred to local treatment centres. Mountain search-and-rescue teams located and assisted 14 missing people.
In one notable mission on 8 Dey, rescuers reached a remote village on the Takab–Shahin Dezh axis to provide pre-hospital care for a pregnant woman and transport her to a healthcare facility. Such interventions underline the vital role of trained rescue personnel, who operate around the clock in remote and hazardous terrain.
Recognising and preventing frostbite
Frostbite is a serious winter risk for mountaineers and motorists alike. Body parts most prone to freezing include the chin, fingers, toes, nose, ears and cheeks. Early signs are numbness, a pale or greyish skin tone, stiffness and a tingling or burning sensation. At the first sign of these symptoms, gradual warming and urgent medical assessment are essential. If untreated, frostbite can lead to tissue necrosis and, in extreme cases, amputation.
Prevention relies on appropriate clothing, temperature and moisture management, adequate hydration and nutrition, frequent rest stops on long journeys and fitness tailored to the planned route. Carrying basic knowledge of first-aid measures for early-stage frostbite can prevent permanent damage.
Preparing your vehicle and survival kit
Drivers who must travel through mountain roads in winter should prepare their vehicles and carry a survival kit. Essential vehicle checks include a full technical inspection, antifreeze, heating system maintenance, air and fuel filter checks and functional brakes. Snow chains are indispensable for reducing slippage on icy roads. Keep ample fuel, as a running heater can be a lifesaving shelter during prolonged delays.
Practical tools to carry in the boot include a shovel, sand or cat litter for traction, a small emergency tarp and items to clear a blocked exhaust pipe. A blocked exhaust can cause the engine to stall or result in carbon monoxide buildup when the heater is used—check the exhaust regularly if you are stationary in snow.
A comprehensive survival kit should contain: a lighter, whistle, non-perishable food, water, emergency blanket, multilayer warm clothing, fire-starting materials, a first-aid kit, solid fuel tablets or similar, torch and spare batteries, water purification tablets, a multi-tool and a compact sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures. Small comforts such as a saucepan for heating food and extra blankets can restore energy and morale in severe cold.
Emergency teams also set up temporary shelters where needed; in Zanjan, a central husseinieh provided emergency accommodation for 147 people while 300 blankets were distributed to those affected.
Respect for responders and continued vigilance
These operations highlight the importance of preparedness, respect for weather warnings and gratitude for rescue workers who risk their safety to assist others. Adopting recommended precautions and carrying the right equipment significantly improves outcomes for travellers caught in winter storms.
Key Takeaways:
- Iran winter safety advice and a report from Zanjan: Red Crescent teams rescued hundreds and sheltered dozens after heavy snow and blizzard conditions.
- Emergency response: 377 people freed from snow with 14 operational teams; 11 traffic incidents saw 39 people affected and 28 transferred to medical centres.
- Practical survival and vehicle-preparation tips include carrying snow chains, extra fuel, a survival kit and recognising early signs of frostbite.
- Temporary shelter and blanket distribution helped 147 people; continuous preparedness and respect for rescue teams are essential.
