The RNLI lifeboat SUNIJO was launched on Friday at 7.35pm to help a swimmer at Gullane who had “experienced a medical episode”.
The casualty had collapsed after coming out of the water and felt unwell. After a medical handover from the Coastguard Rescue Teams who had been looking after the person the lifeboat crew transported them to a waiting ambulance in North Berwick.
Helm, Fraser Fulton said “Due to the remote location of the casualty and his condition it was decided that the lifeboat was the best option to get him to safety. Lifeboat volunteers are trained in casualty care, so are able to stabilise a casualty before handing over to the ambulance service.”
Water Safety Advisor, Matthew Gibbons said: “This incident highlights the hidden dangers of cold water. Whilst the majority of the time, we can enjoy a quick dip in the sea, our bodies may react differently, especially if the air temperature is significantly warmer than normal.
“When we enter cold water, our body undergoes a number of physiological processes to protect itself. These include the cold shock response and reactions to immersion, involving a centralisation of blood flow. When we exit the water, vasodilation can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, which may also be enhanced by the act of standing up.
“These processes can put the body under stress, and may cause fainting or worse especially if you’re not used to cold water, are dehydrated or have underlying medical conditions. The bottom line is, it can happen to anyone.
“If you’re headed into the water, never go alone, acclimatise slowly taking time to enter the water, stay within your depth and get out before you feel cold. If you get into trouble, try to stay calm, float on your back with your ears submerged, looking up to the sky making small movements with your hands.
“In any coastal emergency, dial 999 for the Coastguard who will arrange the most appropriate response to get you the help you need.”
Rescues like these are made possible through donations from the public. North Berwick RNLI are hosting their annual Open Day on Saturday 19 July, 11am-4pm at Anchor Green, North Berwick Harbour. There will be fun for all including live sea shanties and Scottish music, second hand books, tombola, raffle, and home baking stalls, the RNLI shop, kids zone and safety advice from North Berwick’s Coastguard Rescue Team, Surf Life Saving Club, and Community First Responders.
