Mediamec An emergency call from a walker who spotted a man in distress led to the rescue of a 55-year-old hiker in Newlands Forest on Friday morning.
Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) sent a team, including SANParks Table Mountain National Park rangers, after the walker contacted its emergency response centre.
A paramedic from Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS examined and treated the man at the scene. Rescuers then placed him on a stretcher and carried him to a rescue vehicle nearby.
The vehicle took him down the trail to an ambulance, which transported him to a nearby hospital for further care. The rescue was concluded shortly after 9am.
The incident underscored the message of WSAR’s “Safe, My Mate” awareness campaign, which urges hikers, walkers and climbers to care for one another. The initiative draws on the familiar South African phrase “my mate” and the spirit of ubuntu.
Its emergency response guide uses “SAFE” to remind people to stop, assess the situation, formulate a plan and execute it. Calling for emergency assistance is usually part of that plan.
Anyone heading onto the mountain is encouraged to save the emergency number, 021 937 0300, before setting out.
