WATCH: Two pulled from Pinelands canal after rising floodwater sparks rescue drama
Two people were rescued from a Pinelands canal as rising water trapped them inside a void. Watch the dramatic emergency response.
Black News 
A dramatic rescue unfolded in Pinelands, Cape Town on Sunday after rapidly rising water trapped a man and woman inside a canal with no way out.
The City of Cape Town said firefighters were called in to assist Metro Rescue after reports that two people were stuck in a void inside the canal. As water levels climbed quickly, crews moved to bring them to safety.
Pinelands canal floodwater rises fast
Sunday’s rescue came as Cape Town was hit by its first notable cold front of the autumn. The weather event brought heavy rain and wintry conditions.
The downpours caused water levels in the canal to rise quickly, catching the pair off guard.
Firefighters set up ropes and kept a ladder ready for an emergency extraction. Metro Rescue teams then entered the canal wearing wetsuits and harnesses to reach the stranded pair.
An adult man and woman were eventually brought out safely.
Both were treated for hypothermia at the scene before being taken to hospital.
Specialised teams called into action
The City said the incident was the third major technical rescue in only a few weeks involving its Fire and Rescue Service.
“This assist is the third incident in just four weeks where our rope rescue technicians were involved,” said Cape Town’s Safety and Security MMC, JP Smith.
He said previous call-outs included rescuing a woman who fell into a drain in Bonteheuwel. A dog was also rescued from a drain in Durbanville.
“Once again, rescue services were available to assist and ensure a positive outcome,” Smith added.
Rope rescue technicians are specially trained firefighters who operate in high-angle, low-angle and confined spaces.
They use ropes, harnesses and rigging systems to reach trapped people in dangerous areas.
“Please stay clear of canals and waterways during wet weather conditions,” the City warned. “Fast-rising water can become life-threatening in minutes.”
