Mountain safety

Wilderness Search and Rescue

021 937 0300

Nature is unpredictable, and even the most prepared hikers can face unexpected situations. Staying safe on the mountain means respecting the trail, hiking in groups, and knowing exactly who to call if things go wrong.

Always keep these safety protocols in mind:

• Save: Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) emergency contact number (021 937 0300) into your phone contacts before you head out.
  
• Preserve your battery: Keep your mobile phone fully charged. If your battery drops quickly, switch the phone to "Airplane Mode" to save power for emergency navigation or calls.
  
• Know the cutoff time: Hikes should be started early in the morning so you have plenty of daylight. Plan to be off the mountain at least two hours before sunset.
  
• Stick to marked paths: Never stray from the established trail shortcuts or try to climb unknown rock faces. Getting lost or stranded usually happens when hikers wander off-trail.
  

What to do in an emergency: If you or someone in your group is injured or lost, remain calm, find a spot with cellular reception, and call the WSAR team immediately. Be ready to share your exact location or GPS coordinates.