[imagesource:wikimediacommons]

It seems there were a few elderly hikers out and about in the mountains this weekend who needed aid from the Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) teams.

The worst case occurred later on Saturday afternoon when the WSAR team was alerted to an incident involving an elderly hiker in Newlands Forest.

Apparently, the 75-year-old man collapsed while walking in the forest, with spokesperson David Nel confirming that when the teams arrived, they found the gentleman deceased, per IOL.

His body was placed into a stretcher and carried down to the start of the trail before being handed over to SAPS members on the scene.

The morning was also busy for WSAR, with an incident involving an elderly person who had injured himself on the India Venster hike shortly before 9AM. Cape Town ETC notes that the rescue teams were dispatched to the lower cable station where the 66-year-old hiker was believed to have slipped on the wet trail, injuring himself.

“He was unable to continue, and a call was made to the emergency number. Several team members quickly hiked up to his position where he was assessed and treated by a paramedic.

Image: WSAR

“Once on scene, the patient was hoisted up into the helicopter and flown to a nearby landing zone, before being transported to hospital by ambulance,” said Nel.

Later on, as well, a small team onboard the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) responded to a female hiker in need after injuring herself on the trail to Disa Dell on the Hex River Mountains north of Worcester.

Image: WSAR

The 64-year-old hiker had badly injured her ankle and was unable to continue. Nel said she was too taken up via a rescue chopper and then transported to a hospital.

Nel said that despite the wintery conditions, a large number of outdoor enthusiasts are taking to the trails and underestimating the dangers:

“While we encourage everyone to head out and appreciate the beauty of the Western Cape, we appeal to anyone venturing into the wilderness at this time of year to be cautious.

“Expect cold and wet conditions for the next few months, so make sure to pack a waterproof layer and extra warm clothing when heading out.

Nel also wished the two patients a speedy recovery and extended the deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased.

For the rest of you, be careful not to slip out there.

[source:capetownetc&iol]