This Easter weekend, Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) teams responded to four separate incidents across the Peninsula and Jonkershoek trails, with three occurring after dark, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Hikers were stranded due to falls, lost paths, or lack of equipment, testing the coordination and skill of rescue volunteers and partner agencies.
On Thursday afternoon, a 63-year-old woman fell while hiking at Cape Point. ‘The group acted quickly and called the emergency number,’ said a WSAR spokesperson.
A helicopter team assessed and treated her before transferring her to a nearby ambulance. ‘She was stabilised and transported safely to hospital,’ the spokesperson added.
Friday evening, four hikers became stuck on Jonkershoek’s Pieke Trail without torches or warm clothing.
‘We used ropes to carefully haul them to safety,’ said a technical rescue team member. CapeNature rangers guided them the remainder of the trail.
During the same period, a 32-year-old hiker became dehydrated off the Diagonal Path on Table Mountain. ‘The drone helped us locate him and guide rescuers above his position,’ said a WSAR volunteer. He was given water and electrolytes before being brought down safely.
On Saturday, a 31-year-old UK visitor lost his way near India Venster. ‘He initially dialled 999, but we reminded him to call 021 937 0300,’ said a WSAR coordinator. Passing hikers assisted in guiding him to safety.
‘For helping save these lives, our heartfelt thanks to all volunteers and partner agencies,’ said WSAR.
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Picture: Tian Cilliers
