Swimmer rescued by lifeboat crews near Gullane after collapsing during warm weather

A swimmer who collapsed after exiting the water at a popular spot in East Lothian was rescued by lifeboat crews.

Volunteers at North Berwick RNLI launched the charity’s D Class Lifeboat on Friday at around 7.35pm to evacuate a swimmer experiencing a medical episode.

The casualty was swimming near Gullane amid a heatwave which swept across the country over the weekend.

Saturday was Scotland’s hottest day of the year, with temperatures exceeding 31C in parts.

Coastguard crews from North Berwick and Dunbar requested the RNLI to evacuate the casualty who had collapsed after exiting the water after feeling unwell.

After a medical handover from the Coastguard, crews transported the patient to an ambulance at North Berwick.

Fraser Fulton, RNLI helm, said: “Due to the casualty’s remote location and 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.”

Matthew Gibbons, water safety advisor, 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.”