hiking

Three people sustained multiple injuries and needed to be airlifted after they went hiking. Image: Pixabay

Three people sustain multiple fractures while hiking in Stellenbosch

Two men and a woman were airlifted after they sustained multiple serious fractures while hiking in Stellenbosch

hiking

Three people sustained multiple injuries and needed to be airlifted after they went hiking. Image: Pixabay

Rescuers airlifted two men and a woman off a mountain in Stellenbosch on Sunday, 5 February, after they sustained injuries while hiking.

ALSO READ: Two mountain rescues conducted in one day

Three airlifted after sustaining injuries while hiking

The AMS Medical Helicopter met ER24 paramedics at a nearby farm after receiving a call for assistance.

The helicopter airlifted the injured patients from the mountain one by one and delivered them to the waiting medics.

ALSO READ: Several hikers airlifted in separate incidents – including a 2-year-old

Paramedics examined the patients and discovered they had multiple serious fractures.

They treated the patients, administered pain medication, and transported them to Mediclinic Stellenbosch for additional care.

The cause of the incident remains unclear.

ALSO READ: Cape Town hiking: Five easy breezy routes to explore this summer

Tips for hikers in an emergency situation

Wilderness Search And Rescue member, Fredy Mohorich shares the following tips for hikers in an emergency situation:

  • Remain calm and take charge. Declare an emergency and guide the group to stay calm.
  • Assess the patient and their injuries.
  • Know who to call in case of an emergency, have the WSAR number saved (021 937 0300).
  • When calling the emergency center, provide your name, describe the emergency and give concise facts. Explain your location.
  • Manage the scene and inform the rest of the group about the situation.

ALSO READ: Woman seriously injured after falling 10 meters while hiking at Lion’s head

  • Look after the patient and provide basic first-aid if possible.
  • Ensure the scene is safe for the rescue team’s arrival.
  • Step back and let the rescue team work, but be ready to assist if needed.

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