Queensferry RNLI crew rescue two persons from the water at Longcraig Pier

As this call was more urgent, the Queensferry RNLI lifeboat made best speed to the last reported location.

Once on scene, the volunteer crew spotted two persons in the water, the initial casualty and a bystander who had entered the water to attempt a rescue.

The initial casualty had been in the water for 10 to 15 minutes and was extremely cold, weak and had swallowed a significant amount of seawater. The second, was weakening and was unsure on how long they would have been able to keep them both afloat for.

A volunteer crew member entered the water to support the casualties and help them onto the lifeboat. Once on the lifeboat, volunteer crew assessed both casualties whilst on the way back to Hawes Pier. Both casualties were taken into the boathouse to warm up and the volunteer crew continued casualty care until paramedics arrived.

Whilst casualty care was being administered ashore by boat crew, a further crew member joined the lifeboat and the boat headed to their original tasking. This was to a number of casualties cut off by the tide at Culross. The lifeboat was stood down shortly after.

Speaking after the shout, Dean, volunteer inshore lifeboat Helm says: ‘Even with the warmer weather, sea temperatures are still cold. On this particular day, sea temperatures were between 6-8 degrees. Anything below 15 degrees is classed as cold water, so cold water shock is a big risk’.

He goes on to say ‘If you see someone in difficulty at the coast, remember to dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. However, if you do end up in the water unexpectedly, remember to Float to Live.’