Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) Western Cape has had a busy start to the long weekend, conducting rescue operations at Newlands Forest, Table Mountain and Constantia Nek.
WSAR spokesperson David Nel stressed the importance of safety for outdoor enthusiasts, especially with favourable weather drawing large crowds.
Also read: Hiker saved from Platteklip Gorge in epic late night rescue
Rescue at Newlands Forest
A 72-year-old hiker suffered an ankle injury near the contour path in Newlands Forest.
When the WSAR team arrived, a local paramedic carefully assessed the hiker, and after administering first aid, the team successfully escorted the hiker back to a waiting vehicle.
He was subsequently transferred to an ambulance and taken to a medical facility for further treatment, marking a well-coordinated rescue effort completed by 12:30pm.
Father and son airlifted from Table Mountain
A 62-year-old father and his son found themselves in distress in Yellowstone Gulley on Table Mountain. Originally planning to traverse the Right Face Arrow Face, they were forced to call for help due to the father’s sudden illness.
The WSAR quickly mobilised, with a helicopter from the Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness EMS/Air Mercy Service (AMS) arriving for the rescue.
Both were hoisted aboard and flown to safety, with the father later being transported to a hospital by his son.
The operation was concluded by 3:40pm.
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Assistance to a fallen hiker at Constantia Neck
A 25-year-old hiker experienced a fall while descending the Jeep Track.
SANParks’ Table Mountain National Park rangers, in collaboration with WSAR, responded and the injured hiker was driven down to Constantia Neck, where she was transferred to an ambulance and taken to a hospital for further medical care.
The operation concluded just before 2pm.
Family rescue amid mist on Table Mountain
A local family of four lost their way in dense mist while heading to the Upper Cable Station. Starting their hike from the Pipe Track, they found themselves stranded as the wind swept the iconic tablecloth of mist across Table Mountain.
Responding to their emergency call, a WSAR team was transported to the mountain’s summit via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway.
After a quick cross to Echo Valley, the team located the family, thanks to the accurate location details provided. The family was then guided to the Upper Cable Way, with the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway aiding in their descent.
This operation concluded just before 7pm.
Reiterating safety measures, Nel advised hikers to start their expeditions early, carry sufficient water, dress appropriately, stick to marked trails and keep the emergency number (021 937 0300) handy.
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Team effort rescues dehydrated hikers and dog from Hangberg hiking trail
Picture: Wilderness Search And Rescue WSAR Western Cape / Grant Duncan-Smith