Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams were kept on their feet this past weekend, responding to six incidents across Table Mountain, Stellenbosch, and Lion’s Head as outdoor activity picks up with the warmer weather.
Among the rescues was a German family who lost their way on Smuts Track after hiking up Skeleton Gorge on Friday. Rescuers managed to locate them and safely guide them back to Constantia Nek.
A number of other incidents followed, including two injured hikers, one on Kloof Corner and another on Table Mountain as well as a runner who fell on a trail above Coetzenburg.
In a separate case, a British visitor suffered seizures while hiking on Lion’s Head and was treated and evacuated safely.
In the final callout of the weekend, WSAR assisted three young hikers who felt unsafe descending Lion’s Head after dark.
WSAR spokesperson David Nel says the number of callouts has been steadily increasing as the region heads into summer.
“We’re seeing callouts steadily increase as we move closer to summer. Every operation reminds us that safety on the mountain is a shared responsibility and we want to remind all outdoor enthusiasts to plan ahead, research your intended route and prepare for variable weather conditions.”
Nel says hikers should stay on marked routes, travel in groups, and keep emergency numbers saved.
