Nature

Rescuing a Climber at “The Mine”

December 8, 2023

2 mins read

A climber fell 15 meters at “The Mine,” a popular climbing spot in Western Cape, and required rescue. The Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) team used a stretcher wheel to transport the patient safely over challenging terrain. Rock climbing accounts for only 3% of annual rescues by WSAR, emphasizing the importance of learning proper climbing techniques and safety checks before embarking on this sport. WSAR is a crucial part of the outdoor adventure community, providing a beacon of hope for those in need.

Adventure tourism in the Western Cape region is known for activities such as rock climbing. While usually safe, there are times when rescue teams need to intervene. Recently, a 35-year-old climber visiting “The Mine,” a popular climbing spot, fell 15 meters from an overhanging route and required rescue.

“The Mine” – A Challenging Climbing Crag

“The Mine” is popular among climbers for its challenging sport climbing routes with safety anchors bolted into the rock. The climber fell as he reached the third bolt of the “Locomotion” route. His group quickly called the emergency number, and the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) team arrived on the scene.

Successful Rescue Operation

After assessing the climber’s injuries, the team used the Cascade Rescue Company Terra Tamer stretcher wheel to transport the patient safely over challenging terrain. The team secured the patient onto a rescue stretcher and transferred him from the crag to the hiking trail. The patient was then transported to a hospital by ambulance for further treatment.

The Importance of Safety and Rescue Operations

Rock climbing accounts for only 3% of annual rescues by WSAR. The organization emphasizes the importance of learning proper climbing techniques and safety checks before embarking on this sport. Climbing gyms in Cape Town and qualified climbing guides are available for interested individuals.

WSAR – An Essential Part of the Western Cape Outdoor Adventure Community

WSAR is a network of government agencies and civilian volunteer organizations that plays a crucial role in outdoor adventure safety and rescue operations. The organization relies on public support, with donation channels such as the Back-A-Buddy platform and the #IAmWildernessSafe campaign providing funding for life-saving equipment and operations.

This episode highlights the unpredictable nature of outdoor adventures and the importance of preparedness. WSAR is a crucial part of the outdoor adventure community, providing a beacon of hope for those in need. The emergency number, 021 937 0300, is essential for connecting with life-saving professionals.

1. What happened at “The Mine,” a popular climbing spot in Western Cape?

A climber fell 15 meters from an overhanging route and required rescue.

2. How did the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) team transport the patient safely over challenging terrain?

The WSAR team used the Cascade Rescue Company Terra Tamer stretcher wheel to transport the patient safely over challenging terrain.

3. What is the importance of learning proper climbing techniques and safety checks before embarking on this sport?

Rock climbing accounts for only 3% of annual rescues by WSAR, emphasizing the importance of learning proper climbing techniques and safety checks before embarking on this sport.

4. What is the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) organization?

WSAR is a network of government agencies and civilian volunteer organizations that plays a crucial role in outdoor adventure safety and rescue operations.

5. How can individuals support WSAR?

Individuals can support WSAR through donation channels such as the Back-A-Buddy platform and the #IAmWildernessSafe campaign providing funding for life-saving equipment and operations.

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Serjio Zakharoff
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A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

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