update on the drowned fisherman

[luds]

Originally Posted by In The Surf

I doubt that was the case, the fisherman in the area who called for help (coast guard) heard the fallen fisherman calling for help and in distress. He was obviously struggling to save his own life. That wouldn't be the case if it were a heart attack or stroke.

I feel bad for that guy as well. I'd have some sleepless nights after that experience.

[piemma]

So I have a real stupid question. There was another guy there who heard the drowning victim calling for help. he dialed 911. Why the hell didn't he go and help the guy?

[rockfisherman]

Years ago, Lee Wulff was in a video where he dove off a bridge wearing waders and no belt and he swam to shore, proving that it was a myth that they would drag you down.

Channel 10 said the fisherman fell off a breakwall. He probably conked his head and got knocked out and drowned, tho I am speculating.

That said, I am still wearing my wading belt! I have fallen and gone in, and it keeps the water out. I have never fallen in without a belt, but I always wear one so I can't tell you firsthand what it's like without one. Maybe someone else will chime in who can.

[spence]

Originally Posted by piemma

So I have a real stupid question. There was another guy there who heard the drowning victim calling for help. he dialed 911. Why the hell didn't he go and help the guy?

Who knows...if I had a cell I'd certainly call 911 before I tried to go out, unless I knew that I could get him back quickly. It's such a crap shoot...

-spence

[piemma]

I would too Jeff. But how the hell can you watch someone drown. I had an opportunity to save someone 20 years ago in Florida in a place apppropriately names Dead Man's Cut. It's between Captiva and Sanibel Islands. I couldn't just watch this guy drown so I went in and got him. I was lucky and so was he. We both survived.

[spence]

You go with your gut in those situations...I don't think I'd hesitate for a moment if someone was about to go under. But it's so important to get real help involved early...

Last time I was at that spot was just after a big storm a few years back...there wasn't much left of Captiva!

-spence

[tattoobob]

I saved lives twice, they want to use you as a float and put you under
alot of times the saver ends up dead. the hair tow is one of the best way to tow a person back. if you can get the waders off there are ways to use them as floats, I was a life guard and at one time could swim 4 miles.

[Mike P]

Originally Posted by tattoobob

I saved lives twice, they want to use you as a float and put you under
alot of times the saver ends up dead. the hair tow is one of the best way to tow a person back. if you can get the waders off there are ways to use them as floats, I was a life guard and at one time could swim 4 miles.

You're absolutely correct. Most of the time, an untrained rescuer's efforts only result in two victims instead of one.