Emergency responders, including Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) professionals and volunteers, rushed to Lion’s Head late on Saturday evening following reports of an unconscious teenager near the summit.
According to Kosta Papageorgiou, chairperson of Friends of Lions Head and Signal Hill, while making his way up Lion’s Head around 19:30, he was alerted by a regular trail user about a party with a live DJ, electronic equipment, a generator, and a mixing table happening on the mountain’s summit.
He promptly informed SANPARKS Operations, City of Cape Town Law Enforcement, and Search and Rescue members. Upon reaching the summit, he discovered DJ equipment, empty alcohol bottles, and a young person lying in a foetal position, seemingly suffering from dehydration, heat stroke, and intoxication.
Papageorgiou immediately called the emergency rescue authorities, who swiftly made their way to the patient. Upon arrival, the first team found the teenager lying on his side, and a paramedic assessed and stabilized him.
Once the teen regained consciousness and was able to stand, he was assisted into a harness and carefully guided back down the trail. A family member drove the teen home, and the incident concluded shortly before 00h30 on Sunday morning.
WSAR spokesperson, David Nel, says over 20 rescuers responded to the scene and have advised mountain visitors to use the space responsibly.
“Our beautiful wilderness spaces are there to be enjoyed responsibly. Respect the environment. Be courteous to fellow outdoor enthusiasts and abide by the rules of the park”
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