WITSAND NEWS - A 59-year-old farmer from Bultfontein in the Free State sustained severe lacerations and head trauma on Sunday 18 February after having slipped on the rocks at Witsand's main beach while fishing.

Brian Stockton, NSRI Witsand Port Beaufort deputy station commander, said: "NSRI duty crew were activated at 10:15. Our NSRI medics administered medical treatment for multiple lacerations to his head, on his body, on both legs and on his chest. 

"The patient was also found to be fitted with a heart pacemaker and the lacerations to his chest were directly above the area where the pacemaker was situated, further raising concerns. 

"EMS paramedics praised NSRI Witsand for their assistance on the scene."

WC Government Health EMS Eden Control was alerted and an ambulance was dispatched. 

On arrival, paramedics continued with medical treatment. 

The AMS/EMS Skymed helicopter was activated and the patient has been airlifted to the hospital in a serious but stable condition. 

He was kept overnight for observation and was discharged the following day.

A 72-year-old local female resident slipped and fell on the rocks at the main beach while walking on Saturday 17 February. 

She was assisted by the NSRI Witsand Port Beaufort for bruises to the back of the head. 

No further assistance was required.

Another incident occurred when a 71-year-old man from Thornton, Cape Town slipped and fell at the Kraaltjie while launching his boat on Friday 16 February.

NSRI Witsand Port Beaufort medics responded. WC Government Health EMS ambulance transported him to the hospital where he was treated for a cut and lacerations to the head. 

NSRI was informed that he has been discharged from hospital.

Stockton warned: "Visitors are to be aware of the fact that slipways can be slippery, especially at low tide."

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