When a hiker and a bather faced sudden medical crises on Saturday, Western Cape rescue teams leapt into action, airlifting both patients to safety in back-to-back operations that highlighted the power of community teamwork and quick action.
Cape Town, South Africa (05 November 2026) – Two very different emergencies kept Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) teams, the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS and Air Mercy Service rescue helicopter busy on Saturday afternoon.
The first call came from Little Lion’s Head, where a 23-year-old Dutch visitor was hiking with her family when she suddenly felt a painful “pop” behind her knee. Unable to put weight on her injured leg or continue hiking, she made the sensible decision to stop and call the WSAR emergency number for assistance.
The rescue helicopter was dispatched to the scene, where a state EMS paramedic assessed and treated the young woman before she was safely airlifted to a nearby landing zone.
“Her family made their way down the trail to meet her before taking her to the hospital for further treatment,” the WSAR team shared.
There was little time to catch a breath before the second call for help came in.
In the subsequent incident, a man believed to be in his 40s had reportedly tripped and struck his head on a rock at Sandy Bay Beach.
“The helicopter was quickly redeployed, and the patient was safely evacuated to a nearby landing zone, where he was handed over to an ambulance crew for transport to the hospital,” WSAR added.
At the end of a demanding Saturday, two patients caught in two very different emergencies were brought to safety – showcasing another wonderful example of teamwork by these brave rescue crews.
WSAR extended a big thank you to all the responding teams, including SANParks Table Mountain National Park rangers, for their quick response, professionalism, and commitment to helping others.
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Surrounding KZN’s Newest Moms and Tiny Preemies with Extra Love and Care“We wish both patients a speedy recovery. Recognising your limits, calling for help early, and looking out for one another are all part of staying safe in the outdoors,” WSAR concluded.
Save the correct wilderness emergency number before your next adventure and share it with your friends and family. You never know who might need it: 021 937 0300.
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