It was another busy weekend for Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) who responded to a number of calls from elderly hikers in need of aid on Saturday.
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In the first incident, teams were dispatched to the lower cable station shortly before 9am after receiving reports of a person who had injured himself on the India Venster hike.
It is believed that the 66-year-old hiker slipped on the wet trail and injured himself.
He was unable to continue, and a call was made to the emergency number, which saw several team members quickly hike up to his position.
He was assessed and treated by a paramedic before the assistance of the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter was requested.
Once on scene, the patient was hoisted into the helicopter and flown to a nearby landing zone before being transported to hospital by ambulance.
Later, a small team onboard the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter was flown to the Hex River Mountains north of Worcester after a hiker injured herself on the trail to Disa Dell.
The 64-year-old hiker had badly injured her ankle and was unable to continue.
She was hoisted into the helicopter and flown to a nearby landing zone before being transported to hospital by ambulance.
Then, teams were alerted to an incident involving an elderly hiker in Newlands Forest late on Saturday afternoon.
According to reports, the 75-year-old hiker collapsed while walking in the forest.
Sadly, when the teams arrived, they found that the gentleman had passed away.
His body were placed into a stretcher and carried down to the start of the trail before being handed over to SAPS members on scene.
‘We’re seeing large numbers of outdoor enthusiasts taking to the trails, despite the wintery conditions,’ said spokesperson for Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR), David Nel.
‘While we encourage everyone to head out and appreciate the beauty of the Western Cape, we appeal to anyone venturing into the wilderness at this time of year to be cautious.’
‘Expect cold and wet conditions for the next few months, so make sure to pack a waterproof layer and an extra warm clothing when heading out.’
‘Take care when hiking near rivers and be careful on wet and slippery trails.’
‘We would like to wish our patient a speedy recovery and we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased,’ Nel said.
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Pictures: WSAR / Nicholas Burger, Isak Wüst, Brent Russel, Hendré Zoutendyk and Ian Austin