ANOTHER day, another near-tragedy in the icy waters of the River Ouse.
Fortunately, two passers-by were on hand when a woman threw herself off the Millennium Bridge on Monday.
Today, the men, 36-year-old Jasper Sleeman-Hiscock and Martijn Huibers, 42, tell how they plunged into the freezing water to pull the woman to safety. Their story illustrates vividly the horrible dangers of York’s rivers.
“I took it very carefully getting in because of all the information you get about the cold affecting you,” said Martijn. “I immediately noticed the temperature affecting my breathing.”
Jasper said the water was so cold it felt like ‘swimming through treacle’ – though he only really noticed when he got out. “I suddenly felt bloody freezing.”
The two men have been praised by police, who say they saved the woman’s life.
But official advice remains not to dive into the river if you see someone in trouble, but to call 999.
“The River Ouse can be hazardous for people who are not trained,” said PC Neil Slater of York Police.
Having risked their own lives, Martijn and Jasper would no doubt second that.
These rivers are dangerous. Treat them with respect.
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