Police praised after swimming out to rescue woman who fell in Swan River
Two police officers who saved a woman who fell into the Swan River in Perth have been praised for their quick thinking and bravery.
Emergency services were called to Riverside Drive near the Kwinana Highway at the Swan River ramp at around 5.40am on Thursday following reports a woman was in the water and screaming for help.
The woman, believed to be in her 30s, was seen struggling in the water and clinging to a red channel sign about 200 meters offshore.
Two police officers then jumped into the water and swam to save him.
When the water police arrived on the scene, the woman was put on a boat with two police officers swimming to help her.
All three were taken to Elizabeth Quay and treated by paramedics there.
The woman was taken to Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital for precautionary medical assessment and both officers are being monitored for symptoms of hypothermia.
WA Police Superintendent Amber Harvey praised the two officers for their efforts and recommended they receive the Royal Life Saving award.
“This was an extraordinary display of quick thinking and courage by our officers who risked their own safety to help a population in distress,” he said.
“The actions of these officers exemplify the professionalism and determination we expect from our police, especially in dynamic and high-risk situations.
“I appreciate the coordination between the officers involved, Water Police and St John WA which ensured a quick and safe outcome for everyone involved.”
