And so it happen again...for 2 consecutive years... this time, it's Dennis' turn to write the report - last year it was mine.
We were just doing our duty as a Boatman/Lifesaver out at sea, enjoying the sea breeze blowing at our faces. The waves rock the boat steadily as the tide rises.
Comfort was soon put aside when we saw 4 kayaks somewhat stationary near the Noordin Jetty - 3 singles, 1 double.
As Dennis brought the boat right beside the victim, we realise to our horror, a cadet was in the sea, semi-conscious. To add to the problem, she's over-nourished (you know what I mean). Like how we were taught, we remained calmed and took control of the situation. I was just thinking...how to keep too calm when the PCG boat was overlooking us about 50m away?!
With her buoyancy vest somewhat useless, her head kept sinking into the water! We initially tried to hoist her onto the boat. And so we tried...Dennis and I lifted her up by her wrist...but her voluptuous bottom just can't get pass the bow. I thought we could go for a 2nd try, and hence I used my legs to form somewhat a vice-grip around her waist - hey...I don't have the strength to hold her with my arms!
Time for a 2nd idea. We lowered her into the sea (with her head still kept sinking) and Dennis gave her a life buoy.
Dennis decided to get into the water. Every lifesaver knows that this should be the last resort. With his experience as a lifeguard, and a qualification of a BC...I don't doubt this friend of mine - there really seems to be no other choice!
And so the great teamwork of 3 instructors - the boatman, kayaker, lifesaver...and ya, victim. Dennis held on to the kayak and the victim, the kayak held on to the boat, and I drove them to Noordin 2.
This is the first time I see a victim need to be rescued. And I am somewhat proud that we manage to rescue her sucessfully, moreover when it is with my good friend.
One rescue made in A3, one big milestone in my life...
Interesting fact:The last time a major incident happen between Dennis and myself during ATC, it was also during Area 3 when we were partners as Boatman/Lifesaver. That was last year when the wiring on the boat actually caught fire spontaneously.
Now I am wondering, will something big happen again during A3 ATC again next year if it's Dennis and I who are partnering? 2008, I await.