Queensferry RNLI volunteers rescue injured dog walker from the water

It was a hot and sunny Friday afternoon as Queensferry RNLI Lifeboat, the Jimmie Cairncross, launched and made way to Silverknowes Beach in smooth seas and a force 2 wind blowing from the east.

The casualty and his partner had both been walking their dogs on Silverknowes Beach, when he fell and became injured near the shoreline. The casualty’s partner initially called for an ambulance. However, due to the rapidly incoming tide and the casualty being unable to move due to the pain, it quickly became an emergency for the Coastguard to co-ordinate.

As the volunteers arrived on scene, it was clear that shallow water would prevent the boat from getting any closer than 100 metres to shore. Therefore, two crew members entered the water with a first aid kit and made their way to the casualty by foot. Once the crew arrived with the casualty, it was found that the male was in a lot of pain and struggling to keep his head above the water.

The crew supported the casualty in the water, keeping him afloat as a life saving measure, until Special Operations Ambulance crew (SORT) arrived to assist. SORT assessed the casualty and it was found that the male had sustained a dislocated knee.

Along with SORT and Coastguard Rescue Teams, the crew assisted the casualty onto a stretcher and transported them ashore to an awaiting ambulance for treatment. Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 199 was also tasked, and remained in the area in case rapid extraction was needed, however this was ultimately not required.

The lifeboat picked up the two volunteer crew at Cramond Village, before being stood down and returning to station at approximately 5pm.

This incident comes just a day after Queensferry RNLI Lifeboat was tasked at 2.40pm on Thursday 16 July, to reports of four persons in difficulty in the water at Silverknowes Beach. However, nothing was found after a short search of the area and this was deemed to be a false alarm with good intent.

Following the shout, ILB Helm Callum Calder said: ‘The casualty was lucky that we arrived when we did, as waves were already breaking over their head and the tide was coming in quickly.’

He goes on to say: ‘The casualty’s partner did the right thing in calling for help and gave a very accurate description of their location. This was a great example of multi-agency working in the successful rescue of a casualty, which could have potentially had a very different outcome.

‘We wish to remind those heading to the beach to remember, Float to Live. If you see anyone in difficulty, or get into trouble yourself call 999 and ask for the Coastguard’

Notes to editors

• Across all incidents in 2025, Queensferry RNLI Lifeboat Station launched 101 times, saving 4 lives and aiding 119 people caught in difficulty in the water

• Queensferry RNLI lifeboat station has been operating since 1967