Coffin ships
THE TINY VICTIMS OF HUMANITARIAN CRISIS
got a call from the Italian coastguard to say there was a migrant vessel that was sinking. On approach, it probably had around 120 migrants on it.
“We could see that one of the sides was under water and people were standing on the deck and up to their waist in water.
“As soon as we turned up, there was a sense of panic. So we got in a smaller vessel and gave out lifejackets.
“But with four or five people clamouring for one life jacket, a few ended up in the water. Two men were completely panicked.
“So I was in the water with them and calmed them down and managed to get them on to the boat.”
Jim tried to speak to all of the rescued men, women and children once they are on deck.
He wanted to try to understand why anyone would put themselves through such are going to help. MOAS are transporting people who are really desperate.
“If they weren’t there, these people would die. That’s unacceptable in any day and age just to leave these people.
“I’ve no idea what the answer is. A safer route would be beneficial. When it’s calm the traffickers will put as many boats out as possible.
“They are coming to the end of the season. The more boats they put out, it’s difficult to try and get to everyone.”
At home, Jim trains members of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in swift water, river and flood rescues and swims almost every day.
He said: “It’s part of my job to be in the water. Like most, I learned to swim when I was a young boy.
“I’m a pretty strong swimmer but maybe not good enough to compete. But I have faith in my kit.
“Normally I’m in a drysuit when I’m teaching in Scotland. In the Med, because of the ambient temperature and water temperature, I have a wetsuit on. I’m confident in the water.”