Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
7 safety tips to follow when visiting Table Mountain National Park this Easter
AS THE Easter holiday approaches, from March 29 to April 1, SANParks has said that it expects day visitor numbers to increase over this period at Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).
TMNP includes areas such as Cape Point, Boulders Beach and the Table Mountain Cableway.
The park’s management highlighted that during this period, it usually hosts many families at its braai and picnic sites, and sees an increased number of fishermen around its waters, looking for yellow tail and snoek.
The period is also a time of year for celebration, with numerous religious groups visiting the park to pray and rejoice.
SANParks said that as part of safety measures at the park, rangers and the SEAM (Sea, Air and Mountain) Team would be deployed at all visitor sites, as well as in the marine areas.
The helicopter will be deployed to conduct safety flights and to deploy SEAM Team and K9s on rapid response operations.
If you’re planning to visit the park this Easter, here are important safety tips to follow, according to the park’s management:
Prepare
SANParks notes that preventive safety measures are the responsibility of every park user.
Park management advises visitors to research the area and be ready for weather changes.
TMNP says you should carry the correct gear, water, shoes, hat sunblock and jacket, and leave valuables at home, in preparation for your outing.
Don’t travel alone
If you’re new to Cape Town, TMNP management recommends that you hire a registered guide who knows the mountain.
It cautions travellers against travelling alone or in pairs; and recommends that you hike or cycle in groups of four or more.
It’s best to join a hiking group as a way of discovering the mountain.
You should also advise someone where you are going and what time to expect you back.
Stick to your path
When it comes to your route, TMNP says you should take a map and adhere to your path to be safe.
Stay connected
Another important safety tip the park advises is you carry your phone, save emergency numbers, and make sure your phone is always charged for a pleasant experience.
Protect yourself
TMNP management advises visitors to be alert at all times.
“Be vigilant at ATMs and in crowds. Don’t carry large sums of cash or display valuables.”
They say that if you do have the misfortune of being a victim of crime, report it to the police station as soon as possible.
Reporting on social media is not helpful, as the park cannot open a case against a potential mugger if you do not log the case with SAPS.
Be environmentally-conscious
The park’s management highly discourages coming into contact with or feeding animals at the park.
“Do not come close, feed or touch the seals, rock hyrax, penguins and baboons.”
Keep documents safe
And, finally, the park’s management advises visitors to keep their valuable documents in a safe place to prevent them from getting lost.