A 60-year-old woman died after suffering a medical emergency while walking on a hiking trail in the municipality of Yaiza, Lanzarote, despite efforts by rescuers and medical personnel to save her life.

The emergency occurred yesterday afternoon in an area close to Femés, according to information released by the Canary Islands emergency services.

The Canary Islands Emergency and Security Coordination Centre (CECOES 112) received an alert at approximately 4:00pm, reporting that a woman had suffered a cardiac arrest while on a trail and required urgent assistance.

Because of the location and difficulty in reaching the casualty by conventional emergency vehicles, a helicopter belonging to the Canary Islands Government's Emergency and Rescue Group (GES) was activated.

People in the area had already begun attempting to resuscitate the woman while emergency resources were on their way.

The GES helicopter reached the area, and rescuers were able to access the casualty before she was evacuated by air.

Medical teams unable to save her

The woman was subsequently transferred by helicopter to a location accessible to ground-based emergency services, where a medicalised ambulance from the Canary Islands Emergency Service (SUC) was waiting.

Medical personnel continued advanced resuscitation attempts after taking charge of the casualty.

However, despite the efforts of those who initially assisted her, the rescue team and SUC medical staff, the woman could not be revived, and her death was confirmed.

The emergency response also involved other resources, including the Guardia Civil, Local Police and firefighters, who assisted with the operation and the procedures required following the woman's death.

The incident highlights the additional challenges emergency personnel can face when medical emergencies occur on walking routes and in areas that are difficult for ambulances and other vehicles to access.

Hiking is extremely popular throughout Lanzarote, with trails around Yaiza and Femés attracting residents and visitors because of the area's volcanic landscape and views across the south of the island.

Emergency services recommend that walkers choose routes appropriate for their physical condition, carry sufficient water, protect themselves from high temperatures and ensure somebody knows their intended route.

Anyone encountering a serious emergency anywhere in the Canary Islands should contact 112, giving the most accurate location possible to help rescuers reach the casualty quickly.