Man pulled from River Medway by Kent firefighters

Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to Rochester Bridge to reports of a man in the River Medway. Two fire engines attended and crews threw a life ring attached to a line to the man, preventing the tide from pulling him down river. The Coastguard attended and crews pulled the man from the water. He was handed into the care of SECAmb paramedics and was taken to hospital. The RNLI and Kent Police were also on the scene. Following this incident, firefighters are urging people to be careful around water, and only to enter waters that are designated specifically for swimming. Leanne McMahon, KFRS Group Manager for Community Safety, said: Sometimes water is not as safe as may seem, and is full of dangers you can’t see: – The water is often deeper than it looks – There are often strong currents that can drag you down – It’s very cold, and can quickly cause cramp and breathing difficulties – It may contain hidden rubbish and debris such as shopping trolleys and broken glass which can cause injuries – It can be polluted and can make you very ill. “A quick dip can quickly turn into a seriously dangerous situation. So please, stay safe by only entering waters that are designated for swimming.”