• “Always obey the lawful instructions of officials during emergencies”, says WSAR
• Tandem paraglider crashes shortly after take-off
• 36-Year-old pilot injured, passenger safe
• 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 volunteers and professionals from Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) responded to Signal Hill after a tandem paraglider crashed shortly after take-off on Thursday morning.
According to David Nel, a spokesperson for Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR): “Our rescuers reported that a cyclist ignored an instruction to stop while the rescue helicopter was in the process of landing on Signal Hill Road.
“Our teams do their best to limit any inconvenience to the public during wilderness emergencies, however our priority remains the safety and wellbeing of the patient, our team members and any members of the public.
“We urge everyone, including pedestrians, hikers and cyclists, to obey the lawful instructions of officials during any emergencies.”
The 36-year-old pilot sustained injuries to his leg when the pair crashed. Observers immediately called the emergency number – 021 937 0300.
His passenger was uninjured, and bystanders helped her back up to the take-off point.
A small rescue team onboard the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter were flown to the scene and hoisted down to a point near the injured pilot.
The injured pilot was assessed and treated by a paramedic before being placed into a rescue stretcher.
He was hoisted up to the helicopter and flown to a nearby landing zone on Signal Hill Road, before being carried to a waiting ambulance and driven to hospital.
The incident was concluded at 13H30.
“We wish him a speedy recovery”, Nel said.
• Save and share the Emergency Contact Number - 021 937 0300
• Donations can save lives - now via special 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 Benita Evans, Hugo Vaughan and Tim Lundy
