Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams have had their hands full at the weekend after responding to four incidents along hiking trails across the metro.

In the first incident, rescue teams were dispatched to Du Toitskloof in response to reports of a 17-year-old hiker drowning at the Krom River Waterfall on Saturday morning. The teenager was later declared deceased on the scene. The hiker’s body was safely transported from the waterfall base to a location accessible by paramedics.

At the same time, responders attended Meerendal Wine Estate near Durbanville, where a 28-year-old mountain biker crashed down a steep section of a trail on Saturday morning. Following on-site assessment and treatment, a rescue helicopter was requested to airlift the injured cyclist to the hospital.

On Saturday afternoon, WSAR teams along with SANParks – Table Mountain National Park Rangers, attended Silvermine Nature Reserve after a 10-year-old fell and sustained injuries at the Elephant’s Eye Cave. The child was assisted down the trail, transported to the parking area, and then taken to the hospital for further medical treatment.

Towards the end of the weekend, two local hikers were reportedly stranded above Newlands. This was allegedly after attempting to descend from Carrol’s ledge route via the Ascension Buttress Route on Sunday evening. Located on a cliff high above Newlands Forest, the hikers were safely rescued by a team from the Air Mercy Service rescue helicopter. The incident concluded shortly before 09h00 on Monday morning.

As the rest of the week is anticipated to bring intense heat, spokesperson for WSAR, David Nel, urged caution for those venturing outdoors.

• “For moderate outdoor activities – carry at least 500ml of water for every hour you intend to be busy.”
• “Slow down and remember to rest in the shade.”
• “Dress appropriately – wear a hat and closed shoes and apply sunblock regularly.”
• “Choose activities and trails in shaded areas.”
• “Always keep to the trails and make sure you’ve saved the emergency number – 021 937 0300 to your phones.”

“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the friends and family of the deceased at this sad time”, said Nel.