Unresponsive kayaker saved by 'life-saving actions' from the public

Area Beat Officers from South Lakes Police were called to an incident on the outskirts of Sedbergh on Sunday, November 23 after a member of a recreational kayaking group got into difficulty in the water.

Officers highlighted how important it was that other kayakers had immediately begun CPR and other life-saving measures, giving the casualty a much higher chance of survival.

South Lakes Police said: “As police officers at such incidents we always prepare for the worst case scenario, in readiness to pass news on to a casualties next of kin. It is without doubt one of the hardest parts of the job. In this case the outlook was bleak from the outset.

“Fortunately, other members of the kayak party were conversant with CPR, basic life support and had begun life-saving actions without any hesitation.

“We'll never know the impact of this early intervention directly other than to confirm that this afternoon we have received confirmation that the male, who had been placed in an induced coma, [and] was suffering with hypothermia and cardiac issues was [now] upright and talking to his loved ones from his hospital bed.”

The incident prompted a multi-agency response, with the first emergency service vehicle arriving on scene just five minutes after the 999 call was made, using a mobile defib machine to deliver a shock to the casualty.

Officers said the swift action and first aid knowledge of the group meant the initial assessment of the casualty’s critical condition had been downgraded.

“This incident serves as a very real reminder that anyone has the ability to preserve life,” said South Lakes Police. “If you have the opportunity to learn CPR or basic first aid – please take it! When it comes to situations such as this, every second counts and the power is literally in your hands!”

Police thanked emergency services colleagues from the fire service, and land and air ambulances who also attended the incident.