An officer’s brisk dip paled in comparison to the unfolding emergency of hypothermia setting in for two stranded swimmers.
On Tuesday at around 6.25pm, calls to 111 reported two teenage boys becoming stuck on a pontoon off Browns Bay Beach.
“The two teenagers had been in the water for some time before deciding to swim out to the pontoon,” Senior Sergeant Garry Larsen, Officer in Charge Marine Rescue Centre, says.
“Once they got to the pontoon they started to suffer from the onset of hypothermia and couldn’t get back to shore safely.”
Members of the public heard the boys’ cries for help and called Police.
Units deployed to the beach, with the Police Maritime Unit also deploying Deodar.
“The boys were deteriorating quickly, and people on the beach were becoming uneasy,” Senior Sergeant Larsen says.
The Waitematā Shift Commander had also responded to beach and observed the situation.
The Acting Senior Sergeant, who previously trained as a lifeguard, made the call to swim out to the boys.
“He stripped down and headed to the boys to assess the situation.”
He reached the boys, comforting them before help arrived a short time later.
Senior Sergeant Larsen says Deodar uplifted the boys before they were taken to hospital for checks.
“We’re pleased to report the boys are OK. Our Acting Senior Sergeant made a great call around his capabilities, and he not only kept the boys calm, but prevented any well-intentioned members of the public from potentially getting into trouble themselves.”
Police also acknowledge those on the beach who called 111 at the time.
Summer’s coming…
With the weather beginning to warm up Senior Sergeant Larsen wants to send a timely reminder about water safety.
“Each year Police see tragic outcomes in and around water.
“Be aware of your capabilities and understand it might not be the same as your mate’s. Don’t go in the water if you’re not comfortable.”
Water Safety NZ encourages all New Zealanders to know how to stay safe in, on and around water.
• Actively supervise children in and around the water.
• Know what your capabilities are. Even strong swimmers drown.
• Practice your ability to float and understand what to do when things go wrong. Float on your back with your ears in the water to increase your chances of survival. Remember not to panic if you unexpectedly enter the water, relax and focus on controlling your breathing.
• Know the environment, is it safe to go in? Dangers exist in every river and at the beach. New Zealand’s conditions can change quickly, and it is important to expect the unexpected.
• If swimming at the beach, swim between the red and yellow flags.
• Always check weather and tide conditions before heading out.
• When swimming, diving or boating, avoid alcohol and drugs.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you will come back – this can be crucial information for us to locate you.
If there is a water-related emergency, always call 111 immediately.
