Table Mountain Cableway expands safety measures for visitors

As more people venture onto Table Mountain it is important to understand that there are a number of risks that visitors and hikers should be aware of that could impact their personal safety, says managing director of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC), Wahida Parker. Weather-related hazards such as the heat and wind can catch visitors off guard if they are unprepared, and uneven pathways and hiking trails could lead to people stumbling and falling, not to mention that five of the most dangerous species of snakes are found in the vicinity.

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"The safety of our visitors is our top priority and it is extremely important that people have a safe and enjoyable experience when visiting our mountain," says Parker.

Recent reports of criminal activities in and around Table Mountain National Park serves as another caution to hikers and visitors to be aware of important safety information.

"Even though the responsibility and the jurisdiction to protect visitors in the entire Table Mountain National Park rests with South African National Parks (SANParks) officials, we are continually looking for ways in which we can assist and partner with SANParks," explains Parker.

In order to boost safety and security in the national park, TMACC procured three high-tech CCTV cameras for use by SANParks. The state-of-the-art cameras are fixed at strategic locations across the park and are helping to cast a wider security net over large swathes of Cape Town’s iconic landmark. They are monitored by operators around the clock, while SANParks personnel will be deployed to respond to any incidents as required.

"We also encourage our visitors to take note of a few simple do's and don’ts when it comes to safety on Table Mountain. The most important thing to remember is that people should avoid hiking alone; instead, they should move through the park in groups of four or more," Parker advises.

Safety tips to help visitors make the most of their time in the park and on the mountain:

• Plan your route and do not deviate from it;
• Stick to the designated paths and follow the signposts to avoid getting lost;
• Always walk with an experienced hiking guide;
• Take a fully charged phone with relevant emergency contact numbers saved on it;
• If your group gets lost, do not split up. You should rather attempt to retrace your steps;
• Give yourself plenty of time to explore the mountain;
• Be discreet with your valuables by safely stowing them away while walking around; and
• Take plenty of water and pack the appropriate clothes for possible inclement weather as you ascend the mountain

"With the introduction of new security cameras and providing important safety information to our visitors, TMACC is contributing to making the area safer for locals and tourists alike. Our safety and security efforts ensure that every visitor experience of one of the world’s New7Wonders of nature, is unforgettable," concludes Parker.