Humber Rescue volunteers heroically saved the life of an individual who had been in the freezing waters of the River Humber for three hours on the morning of 12th December 2024.
The rescue operation began at 2:37am, when Humber Rescue was tasked to respond to reports of a person in the water near the River Humber. Despite water temperatures of just 8°C, which allow for a survival time of only 30-90 minutes, the casualty was miraculously found alive after an intensive search involving multiple teams and resources.
Coastguard Helicopter ‘Rescue 912’ was initially deployed but was unable to assist due to low-lying fog. In response, Humber Rescue launched two lifeboats. A drone, and teams from Hull, Hornsea, and Cleethorpes Coastguard Teams conducted extensive shoreline searches and vessels on the water assisted with the search and keeping a good lookout.
After an exhaustive three-hour search, hope seemed to be dwindling when a lifeboat crew returning to the boathouse received an urgent message from the Coastguard. Workers at Humber Sea Terminal had reported hearing cries for help in the water.
Rushing to the scene, the crew conducted a saturation search and successfully located the casualty. The individual was promptly recovered onto the lifeboat, where they were assessed before being transferred to emergency services waiting at the Humber Sea Terminal.
Ian Bennett, Coxswain of Humber Rescue, highlighted the challenges faced:
“With water temperatures so low, every minute counted. This rescue is a testament to the skill, determination, and teamwork of everyone involved.”
The operation also demonstrated the seamless collaboration between Humber Rescue, the Humber Coastguard, Cleethorpes Rescue Team, Hull Coastguard Rescue Team, Hornsea Coastguard Rescue Team, Humberside Police, and East Midlands Ambulance Service, along with nearby vessels that assisted in the search.
Dave Roberts, Chairman of Humber Rescue, praised the combined efforts that resulted in this life-saving outcome:
“This was a near-impossible situation, and without the dedication of our volunteers and the collaboration of other emergency services, the outcome could have been very different. This rescue demonstrates the critical importance of our work on the Humber Estuary.”
As the team returned to the boathouse, they were immediately called to a second incident, which was resolved shortly after.
This incident marks Humber Rescue’s 108th and 109th callouts of the year, underscoring the vital role the charity plays in ensuring safety on one of the busiest waterways in Europe.
Humber Rescue extends its heartfelt thanks to the local community and supporting organisations for their continued support. This rescue would not have been possible without the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of the public.
If you see someone in difficulty on or near the water, always call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. For more information about Humber Rescue or to support their vital work, visit www.humber-rescue.co.uk or follow them on social media at Humber Rescue.