‘Instinct took over’: London man helps woman in Thames River rescue

Emergency crews rescued a person out of the Thames River in west London, Ont.

An emergency response took place late Friday afternoon along the Thames River.

Local Londoner Daniel Jones said he was on a walk with his family when he noticed a woman in the water.

“It was a contemplation, like do I get in to try and take her out, or does that add to the problem,” said Jones.

He said he tried to get to the woman, but the water was moving quickly.

“We jumped down to the river to try and get her out,” said Jones.

“But the current took her straight away.”

He said he called 911 and, in the meantime, tried to help in any way he could.

“I got my compass out and just started running around the side just to keep her coherent,” said Jones.

“I met her husband who was also looking for her, and we got her to the side and the police showed up.”

He said the woman was in “complete” shock.

“The poor lady was in the water for maybe 10 to 15 minutes, but she was conscious,” said Jones.

“She was still able to respond to her name, and we were able to get her to move and stuff.”

He said it wasn’t about being a “hero”, just instinct, stepping in to help when someone needed it most.

“We are always just looking to see what we can do for people,” said Jones.

“As a dad, I worry about people.”

He said the woman has since been transported to hospital where she is being treated for hypothermia.

“She seems to be stable so hopefully she gets a full recovery,” said Jones.