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River rescue tests firefighters skills
Firefighters from across Bristol have taken part in a rescue exercise today practising pulling ‘casualties’ out of the River Avon.
Crews from Temple, Bedminster and Brislington fire stations tested their skills in a simulated rescue exercise involving two people who have fallen into the water.
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Station Manager Rob Seaman said the force is called to between 10 and 15 water rescues in the Bristol area every year: “The exercise is designed to ensure those attending can practise their water rescue skills and use the equipment we have to assist us in the event of a real emergency.”
In the last six months alone the force has dealt with two fatal incidents. In February a man died after falling into the city docks near the Thekla and in November 2014 a fisherman drowned after going missing in the Feeder Canal near Netham Lock.
In the rescue scenario the firefighters were called to reports of two dog walkers who have entered the water to rescue their dogs and got into difficulty. During the exercise the force will be trialling a new rescue boat which is on loan to the service.
Seaman added that as the temperature rises the risk of people getting into difficulties in the water increases: “We know that the water provides a popular leisure venue for many people in the city so we will be using this exercise to highlight the importance of staying safe near water.
“At this time of year the water may look very inviting but will be extremely cold if you fall in. The cold will soon affect even the strongest swimmer and if you have been drinking alcohol you will quickly be affected by hypothermia or worse.”
