A 52-year-old woman was airlifted from Lion’s Head after sustaining a leg injury while descending the popular hiking trail with her daughter, Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) confirmed.
The incident occurred when the woman reportedly slipped and was unable to walk, prompting her daughter to call emergency services.
The swift call for help led to a rapid and coordinated response by a Wilderness Search and Rescue team aboard the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness (WCGHW) EMS helicopter.
Rescue harness
A small rescue crew was deployed to the mountain, where a WCGHW EMS paramedic stabilised the injured hiker on the slope. She was then secured into a rescue harness and hoisted into the helicopter.
The woman was transported to a nearby landing zone and later taken to hospital for further treatment.
WSAR commended the daughter for her quick thinking, which enabled the team to carry out the rescue efficiently and without delay.
They also reminded hikers of the importance of being prepared and having access to emergency contact numbers, specifically the WSAR emergency number: (021) 937 0300.
“Having the right number saved and knowing when to call it can make all the difference,” WSAR said in a statement.
Lion’s Head is one of Cape Town’s most iconic trails, attracting thousands of hikers each year. While scenic, it also presents risks – particularly on steep descents and in changing weather conditions.
Have you ever need assistance while hiking?
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