A group of dedicated professionals and volunteers belonging to the Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) swiftly responded to an incident on Lion’s Head following a hiker’s fall from the well-frequented trail on Wednesday evening.
The incident involved a 58-year-old hiker who was ascending the trail near the chains, utilising the staples, when her footing gave way on one of the staples, causing her to plummet approximately five metres. The fall caused her to land on her back at the base of the climb, inadvertently impacting a hiker behind her.
Fortunately, the second hiker emerged from the incident unharmed.
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Prompt action was taken, and an immediate call for help was placed to the emergency hotline at 021 937 0300. Multiple rescue teams were swiftly dispatched to Lion’s Head to provide assistance.
A specialised team from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness EMS/Air Mercy Service (AMS) was rapidly deployed via a rescue helicopter. This highly skilled team was lowered to the scene, where the injured hiker lay. Following meticulous care, she was gently secured onto a stretcher and subsequently lifted into the waiting helicopter. From there, she was flown to a nearby designated landing zone.
Upon reaching the landing zone, the patient was transferred from the helicopter to an awaiting ambulance. She was then transported to the hospital for further medical attention. The entire operation was successfully concluded by 7:15pm.
Commenting on the incident, David Nel, the spokesperson for Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR), acknowledged the challenges of the rescue mission, particularly due to the late hour and unfavourable flying conditions. He commended the expertise of the AMS rescue helicopter crew for their instrumental role in the operation.
Nel emphasised that without their rapid intervention, the process of manually carrying the patient down the trail would have entailed several hours of strenuous effort from multiple rescuers.
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Nel expressed deep gratitude to the dedicated rescue teams, both professionals and volunteers, who generously contribute their time and efforts to assist others in the Western Cape region. He urged individuals to consider supporting these selfless endeavours by contributing to the ongoing fundraising campaign. He highlighted the significance of even small donations in enabling the rescue teams to continue their life-saving work.
In closing, Nel conveyed well wishes for the injured hiker’s complete recovery.
For emergency situations, it’s crucial to have the following contact number readily available: 021 937 0300.
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Picture: Wilderness Search And Rescue WSAR Western Cape / Dave D’Aguiar and Grant Duncan-Smith