Mountain rescue

Table Mountain Cape Town

On Monday the 19th of November 2018 at 13h29 the Peninsula Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) was activated by the Western Cape Provincial Emergency Medical Services (EMS) after a call for assistance was received.

A visitor to the Table Mountain National Park was experiencing medical complications while hiking up the Platteklip Gorge route on Table Mountain. A Rapid Response team consisting of EMS Medical Rescue Technicians and SANParks Visitor Safety Patrollers were dispatched to the Upper Cable Station via Cable Car. Meanwhile, the Air Mercy Service (AMS) Emergency Medical Rescue Helicopter which is contracted to the Western cape Department of Health was placed on stand by in case it was required. A second rescue team was dispatched to the intersection of the Platteklip Gorge at the Tafelberg road as well. The rapid response team then set off on foot towards the Platteklip Gorge en route to the patient, who was subsequently found about three quarters of the way up.

After she had received medical attention, the Medic was satisfied that she was well enough to continue on foot to the summit of the gorge, and then on to the Upper Cable Station. Here she was reunited with her family, who had decided to enjoy a rest and a meal at the restaurant after she had arrived.

The patient was advised that should her condition deteriorate, it would be best for her to report to a medical facility.

WSAR would like to wish her a speedy recovery, and thank all the services who had responded to this call.

Once again the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (TMAC) company is commended for their contribution and service to WSAR.

We urge the public to please:-

consider doing shorter walks early in the morning or in the afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun
carry at least two liters of water per person
choose your walks according to your fitness levels.