• Specialist K9s and Drone Unit respond to old Du Toitskloof Pass search
• Missing 38-year-old hiker treated for heat-related injuries
• “Follow the safety tips for hot-weather wilderness activities,” urges WSAR
• Show your support – https://www.backabuddy.co.za/sos-for-life-saving-equipment
• Outdoor lovers are urged to memorise this crucial Emergency Number: 021 937 0300
• Please share the #IAmWildernessSafe campaign – to increase safety awareness
Dedicated teams of professionals and volunteers from Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) responded to the old Du Toitskloof Pass on Saturday afternoon, to assist local SAPS in their search for a missing hiker.
The lone 38-year-old hiker had been reported missing by family members earlier on Saturday.
After the hiker’s vehicle was traced to a point on the pass, the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS Drone Unit, together with members of K9 Search and Rescue Association of South Africa conducted a carefully coordinated search of the area.
The exhausted hiker was found shortly after 19h00 on Saturday evening. He was treated for heat related injuries and assisted from the mountain to a waiting ambulance, before being driven to hospital.
The incident was concluded shortly after 20h30.
According to David Nel, a spokesperson for Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR): “We urge all outdoor enthusiasts to follow the safety tips for hot-weather wilderness activities.
“Start early and avoid any outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day (12-3pm).
“On warmer days, choose shaded hikes near water if possible.
“Dress appropriately; wearing light colour, loose fitting, breathable, UPF-rated clothing.
“Apply sunblock regularly and remember to wear a hat.
“Carry at least 500ml of water for every hour you intend to be outdoors.
“Save the emergency contact number – 021 937 0300 and remember to call us sooner.
We wish the hiker a speedy recovery,” Nel said.”
• Donations save lives – WSAR Back-A-Buddy platform – https://www.backabuddy.co.za/sos-for-life-saving-equipment
• Please support us – https://wsar.org.za/support-us/
• Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) is a network of government agencies, and civilian volunteer organisations, who partner in search and rescue.
Photos by John Davids, K9 Search and Rescue Association of South Africa and Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS Drone Unit