POLICE in Derry and Foyle Search and Rescue have the praised the actions of a ‘hero’ last night who raised the alarm after spotting someone in the River Foyle.
The selfless action sparked a major police and FSR operation which led to the person being successfully rescued from the icy waters.
PSNI Foyle say; “It’s always a heart sinking moment when you hear on the radio, “person in the water” and last night was a very close call.
“A member of the public was walking along the path by the railway station and noticed a pair of shoes in the snow.
“He walked over to the edge and saw a person in the water below. He raised the alarm and Police and Foyle Search and Rescue were on scene in minutes.
“One trained volunteer from Foyle Search and Rescue bravely entered the freezing and fast flowing river and brought the person to safety.
“Like a true hero, the man who spotted the shoes in the snow and raised alarm, slipped away in the commotion before anyone could thank him, after helping pull the person in the water and the FSR volunteer into safety.
“Talk about being in the right place at the right time!
“You know who you are and if you’re reading this, thank you.
“It’s a sad reality that so many people suffer alone that don’t have to.
“If you are struggling, its ok to not be ok. Its ok to get help but please get help. Here are some useful numbers to save to your phone. It just takes one phone call.
“In an emergency, call 999. For non emergencies call 101.”
FSR said: “At 21:22hrs on Tuesday 29/1/19 FSR Emergency Response Teams were tasked by the PSNI to reports from a member of the public that a person had entered the water.
“Mobile Teams responded along with Boat Crews with a Jetski being launched.
“Pager Co ordinator arrived on scene within minutes & observed a person in the water.
“A Swiftwater Technician suited up & secured by a safety rope entered the water to rescue the person, with the asistance of PSNI personel on land then transferred the person immediately to an awaiting ambulance.
“FSR would like to acknowledge the member of the Public who called 999.
“The event you witnessed tonight would have been stressful and we would like to ensure you are Ok.
“Please message us on our FB page or contact us during office hours on 02871313800 where someone will speak to you.
“Appreciation to all ERT & second response teams who responded in sub zero conditions and to our Swiftwater Technician who entered the water to effect the rescue.”
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