The RNLI has issued a safety warning to those taking part in water sports following a rescue on the North Sea off the coast of Arbroath at the weekend.
Michael Avril, divisional sea safety manager for Scotland, was speaking after a 15-year-old jet-skier was treated for hypothermia after being rescued by the inshore lifeboat.
His father, who had taken to the water in an attempt to rescue his son, also had to be saved by the lifeboat.
While acknowledging it is “very difficult” to watch a loved one in danger on the water, Mr Avril insisted it is important not to put yourself at risk.
He said, “The North Sea is there for everyone to enjoy, but you have to know your limits. If you see someone in danger, you should always phone 999 and ask for the coastguard.
“In Arbroath, the boat will launch between six and 10 minutes after getting the call that’s how quickly we will get to you.
“If you can help it, you shouldn’t try and save someone else before we arrive. It’s much better if you are there so you can point to them and help us locate them more easily.
“If you can, you should try and throw a piece of equipment in to them.”
Following the rescue by the three-man crew, the teenager was taken to Arbroath Infirmary by ambulance, where he was said to be “safe and well.” His father did not require any treatment.
Mr Avril said the boy’s chances of survival had been boosted significantly by the fact he was wearing a flotation device similar to a lifejacket.
He said, “You should always wear a life jacket or something similar it was for this reason that the casualty managed to keep his head above water.”
He added, “A form of SOS device is also very important preferably a VHF radio as this will allow us to make immediate contact when the boat is launched.
“You also need to make a risk assessment before setting out. If you were crossing the road, the first thing you would do would be look in either direction and see what is coming. The same goes for the sea you have to look about and make sure there are no potential dangers.”