HOW TO ENJOY TABLE MOUNTAIN SAFELY
HOW TO ENJOY TABLE MOUNTAIN SAFELY
While more and more people look to spend their time outdoors, it is essential to take extra precautions to stay safe while doing so. This is especially true for those wanting to explore some of Cape Town’s many scenic national parks, including the city’s very own New7Wonder of Nature – Table Mountain.
“Spending time in nature is one of the best ways to connect with your loved ones while ensuring that you practice proper social distancing,” says Wahida Parker, Managing Director of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC). Testament to this, Parker points out that TMACC has seen an increase of 60% in the purchasing of Cable Cards over the past year. “This supports the trend of more people wanting to spend their time outdoors, as the Cable Cards are most often used by people who hike up the mountain and take the cableway down.”
Parker says that with more people wanting to explore the mountain, it is important that everyone take the necessary precautions to ensure that they put their safety first. “No matter how experienced a person may be, unexpected things can and do happen in rugged terrain.The more prepared you are when exploringTable Mountain and other nature reserves, the more likely you are going to have a good experience.”
Some of the trails, such as the India Venster and Nursery Ravine, can be very technical, so they are only recommended for experienced outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Some of the other hiking trails that require some level of preparedness are Platteklip Gorge, Skeleton Gorge and the Kasteelspoort.With several dangerous cliffs and ravines, a misplaced foot can easily lead to an injury, so it is always best to plan where you go and who you go with.
Rising more than 1,000 m above sea level, weather on the mountain can change very quickly. If unprepared, fluctuating temperatures or a strong gust of wind can easily catch you off guard.
It is not just the weather and tricky footpaths that can put you at risk. Parker points out that unsavoury characters are known to take advantage of the cover that the bushes, shrubs, trees and caves provide. Parker says to reduce your risks of being accosted, it is crucial to always stay alert of your surroundings.“To help reduce your risks, it’s best to leave your valuable items such as your wallet and jewellery at home. If you must bring your cell phone or smartwatch, keep them out of sight.”
Parker adds that TMACC, SANParks, Cape Town Tourism, the City of Cape Town and Law Enforcement agencies will continue to work together to help keep the mountain safe for visitors. This includes state-of-the-art CCTV cameras fixed at strategic locations in certain areas of the park to help cast a broader security net over large swaths of Cape Town’s iconic landmark.
Here are a few other basic safety tips to make sure your experience is a safe and memorable one:
• Download the Hikers Network’s SafetyMountain Tracking App: This tracking app is a WhatsApp-based service that tracks users so they remain along the approved SANParks routes.
• Dress appropriately: With winter here, conditions are often wet and windy. Dress warmly, and wear comfortable shoes for balance as it can get slippery when it rains. Layer your clothes.
• Keep an eye on the time: Take note of the shorter days,
as it gets darker earlier. Plan your walks or hikes carefully and make sure that you are in a safe place by the time it gets dark.
• Obey the rules: Stay on the route. Respect restricted areas and do not take risks, even for that perfect Instagram picture. Stick to the designated paths and follow the signposts to avoid getting lost.
• Go in groups: Avoid hiking alone. It is best to go in groups of four or more as an extra safety precaution.
• Tell someone about your plans: If you’re planning on hiking, tell someone.This way, if you get stuck or lost, people will know where to look for you first.
• Stay hydrated: Carry enough water to stay hydrated and take snacks with you.