Five rescues in two days: The vital role of WSAR in the Western Cape

In a remarkable display of coordination, Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams swiftly responded to five emergencies in just two days, aiding injured and stranded hikers across the Western Cape.

The weekend's incidents, from remote river trails and forest slopes to popular mountain paths and rugged wilderness roads, underscored WSAR's critical role in ensuring outdoor adventurers' safety. "These incidents serve as a powerful reminder of the vital role WSAR plays in safeguarding those who venture into the province’s mountains and wilderness areas," WSAR said.

In the first incident, a 56-year-old hiker was rescued on Saturday morning after slipping on a remote trail near the Berg River Dam. Hiking with four others, she was unable to continue, and her group promptly called for help.

"She was assessed and treated on scene, before being placed into a stretcher and carefully carried across the river," WSAR noted.

The operation concluded safely at 2.36pm.

Simultaneously, in Cecilia Forest, a 32-year-old hiker became too exhausted to descend further. Rescuers, including SANParks rangers and EMS paramedics, responded swiftly.

"The hiker was assessed and treated on scene before being carefully placed into a rescue stretcher," WSAR stated.

She was carried to Kirstenbosch Gardens and transported from there. This operation concluded at 2.35pm.

Later that evening, two hikers, aged 34 and 49, lost their way in the Helderberg Nature Reserve. With darkness approaching and the reserve gates set to close, they called for help. Rangers located the women and safely guided them down.

"The hikers, who were uninjured, were found in good spirits and safely guided back down to the entrance," WSAR reported. The incident ended at 7.28 pm.

On Sunday afternoon, WSAR was again called into action when a 60-year-old American tourist injured himself descending Platteklip Gorge.

"He was assessed and treated on scene by a paramedic," WSAR said.

"With support, he was able to slowly continue descending on foot with assistance from rescuers."

Late Sunday, WSAR deployed teams to the Cederberg after reports that two vehicles had veered off-road near the Algeria Camp Site.

While personnel were ready to assist, the operation stood down at 7.18 pm after local teams confirmed they had the situation under control.

“We acknowledge and thank all who contribute their time, skills, and commitment to keeping others safe in often difficult and dangerous conditions,” WSAR said.

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Cape Argus