Take essential items when hiking as warmer days approaches, urges WSAR

The Western Cape’s Wilderness Search And Rescue has urged hikers and mountain users to be extra cautious, especially with warmer days ahead.

This warning comes as an Australian hiker collapsed, after she and three others hiked up the India Venster trail at Table Mountain on Monday. She was assessed and treated for heat related injuries.

‘’They had turned onto Fountain Ledge below the upper cable station when she suddenly collapsed. Her friends immediately called the emergency number – 021 937 0300. The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway assisted by ferrying teams of rescuers and medics to the top of the mountain. Once on top, the rescuers quickly hiked down to the collapsed hiker. She was assessed and treated for heat related injuries,’’ said David Nel, Wilderness Search And Rescue spokesperson.

PICTURE: Christo Lotter - Rescuers shielding the collapsed hiker from the sun while the medic assesses her.

‘’Teams requested the assistance of Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter. Once the helicopter was on scene the hiker was helped into a rescue harness and hoisted up into the helicopter. She was flown to a nearby landing zone and transferred to a waiting ambulance, before being driven to hospital.’’

‘’Rescuers helped the remaining members of the group to the upper cable station. All hikers and rescuers were brought down the mountain in the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway,’’ he added.

Nel, shares tips on what to do as many take advantage of the school holidays and the warmer weather.

‘’The mountain has been incredibly busy over the past few days, with outdoor enthusiasts taking advantage of the school holidays and the warmer weather. With the first hint of summer and temperatures starting to rise, we urge all mountain users to carry extra water and dress appropriately. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan your activities accordingly,’’ said David Nel, Wilderness Search And Rescue spokesperson.

 

Done By: Mitchum George