Quick-thinking hikers praised after Table Mountain rescue

A potentially dangerous situation unfolded on the India Venster route of Table Mountain on Saturday when a group of young hikers acted swiftly to assist a friend who had started to experience severe cramp mid-ascent.

The Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) team commended the hikers for their timely response. Rather than continuing with their hike, the group stopped, evaluated the situation, and called for professional help.

The hikers had set out earlier with plans to descend via Platteklip Gorge and were carrying adequate water, food, and warm clothing.

They remained together and supported their friend, helping him move carefully to a safer position while waiting for rescue teams.

Rescue crews, including rangers from SANParks in Table Mountain National Park, were deployed using the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway and reached the group near Fountain Ledge.

A paramedic from Western Cape Government Health and Wellness Emergency Medical Services treated the hiker’s injuries.

By 5.11pm all members of the group had been safely escorted off the mountain, demonstrating the effectiveness of their preparedness and the importance of early intervention in emergencies.

WSAR highlighted the significance of their approach, encapsulated in their “SAFE” mantra: stop, assess, formulate, and execute.

“The group’s preparedness, their decision to call for help early, and their commitment to looking after one another played a critical role in the positive outcome,” WSAR shared.

IOL