Yahoo News Heroic dog walker hears man's cries for help from deep water in Tavistock
A man was hospitalised after finding himself in deep water in Tavistock, sparking a safety warning from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning (June 10) when a dog walker heard cries for help coming from the river at Tavistock Meadows and promptly alerted authorities. The man was unable to free himself from the deep waters, reports Plymouth Live.
Fire and rescue crews from Devon and Somerset were dispatched to the scene where they utilised lines and safety equipment to extract the man from the river using a ladder. Following his rescue, he received medical attention from paramedics before being transported to the hospital.
Read more:
Later that day, another water rescue call was made from Bere Alston, where a man reportedly fell into a pond while operating a dumper truck. Tavistock Fire Station, along with Bere Alston and Yelverton crews, responded swiftly but were stood down by paramedics who confirmed the individual had managed to get out of the water.
In light of these incidents, Tavistock Fire Station has issued a plea on Facebook urging the public to exercise caution when entering water during hot weather. "With hopefully summer coming please be mindful of getting into water during hot spells," the post read.
"Although it may be hot outside, water temperatures can often be very cold, getting into cold water can cause cold shock and have tragic consequences. Last year 236 people died through accidents involving water."
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service revealed that they have attended, on average, nearly one water rescue per week in the last year. "It might not sound like a lot, but these kinds of incidents have a much higher fatality rate than many other kinds of incidents we attend," the service added.
Steve Fisher from the fire service's Prevention Team advised: "If you are running, walking, or cycling in and around our inland water ways please think water safety. Around 40% of people who accidentally drown had no intention of entering the water and fell in while participating in activities alongside rivers, lakes, and canals."
"Please try to remain at least three metres from the water's edge and should you find yourself in the water follow the RNLI's Float To Live advice."
What to do if someone falls into the water
Never go into the water to try to save someone. You could experience cold water shock which will leave you unable to help, even if you’re a strong swimmer.
Call 999 immediately. If you’re near the coast, ask for a coastguard. If you are inland, ask for the fire, and ambulance services.
Tell the emergency services where you are. You can use your phone, but if you don’t have one or you can’t access location tools then try looking for landmarks or signs that could help the services find you. We recommend downloading the What3Words app to help with pinpointing your location.
If the person can swim, shout “swim to me!” The water can be disorientating, but this could help give them a focus. Keep instructions loud, clear, and consistent.
Look for lifebelts or throw bags you can use. Read about how to use a throwline.
If there isn’t any lifesaving equipment, look for other things that could help them stay afloat, such as a ball. You can even use a scarf or long stick to help pull someone out of the water.
If you do this this, lie on the ground so your entire body is safely on the edge and reach out with your arm. Don’t stand up or lean over the water, as you might get pulled in.
