Helicopter deployment enhances safety at Table Mountain National Park

With safety and security in mind, a helicopter of the South African National Parks (SANParks) was deployed at the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) in Cape Town.

This deployment, in line with SANParks’ safety and security strategy, serves as a visible deterrent while ensuring a rapid response to any potential threats or incidents in the park.

Its first flight recorded success on the first day of arrival, said JP Louw, SANParks head of communications and spokesperson.

Louw said through a coordinated operation of the aerial and ground team, a suspicious person was found carrying a knife in the park. The ground team managed to apprehend the suspect after a chase. He was found to have a lengthy criminal record.

The coordination between the aerial team of rangers and ground teams of rangers is key to ensuring that threats to visitor safety, as well as that of illegal fires spreading, can be immediately addressed.

This helicopter is part of the organisation’s fleet based in the Kruger National Park and its deployment forms part of a range of progressive interventions, such as the recently announced expansion of the specialised Sea, Air, Mountain (SEAM) operators.

Aerial operations have consistently proven successful during high visitor periods such as Easter, Christmas, and New Year, significantly contributing to enhanced safety and crime prevention, Louw said.

Park users are reminded that the national park is openly accessible to all for enjoyment between sunrise and sunset. Visitors should use the park responsibly, travelling in groups with adequate gear for the terrain and weather conditions.

Safety tips, precautions to keep in mind

On its national website, SANParks give the following safety tips and precautions when visiting the TMNP:

• Tell someone reliable where you are going. Tell them which route you are using and what time to expect you back. If you are en route and think you will be a bit late, call that person and give them the new time you will be back. They must know who to call and where to go look for you if you are not back in time.
• Leave valuables at home.
• Have a map of the area with you and leave a copy of the same map with your contact person.
• Know your access and escape routes. You should always know the quickest way to safety. Your contact person should know which routes you will use if you are in trouble. Have a plan and stick to the plan.
• Avoid known dangerous parts of the mountain. Criminal hotspots may change over time, but some areas are favored by criminals that have easy or quick access to and from urban areas and should be avoided.
• The weather in Cape Town and on Table Mountain especially, is unpredictable and can change suddenly. There may be a loss of visibility. Keep an eye on these changes and ensure you pack suitable clothing for all conditions, i.e. a hat, jacket, etc. Walk/run/cycle with a sense of purpose. If you are wandering aimlessly or look lost you are more likely to attract unwanted attention.
• Travel in groups. Criminals are much more likely to go after individuals than groups. TMNP recommends you carry out your activity in groups of four or more.
• Stay alert for possible dangers. Be aware of your surroundings, as to ensure that you do not get surprised. Avoid distractions. You are an easier target if you are distracted by listening to music on headphones, talking on your phone etc.
• Know emergency numbers. Although it is good to have it programmed on your phone, remember if your phone is stolen, the number is no good unless you have memorised it. You can always stop someone else along the route and ask if you can use their phone to call emergency services. Know your local SAPS telephone number.