Smethwick canal tragedy prompts rescue shake-up

New safety procedures for water rescues have been drawn up for fire crews following the death of two teenagers in a Smethwick canal.

Sara Rylance, aged 17, tried to save her boyfriend of two years Fayz Uddin, 18, who was in difficulty after falling into the Birmingham Canal, off Whitehouse Drive, but both lost their lives.

The review by West Midlands Fire Service includes an increase in the number of crews initially attending the scene, using thermal imaging equipment and giving "appropriate instruction" for crews rescuing people in canal locks.

New initiatives have been brought in by fire service officials to help during rescue attempts thanks to information from firefighters who attended the scene last October.

Recommendations outlined today suggest an increase in the number of crews sent to water rescues if it is reported that more than one person is in danger. Three fire engines and a water rescue team will now be sent in the future to incidents where two people need rescuing from the waterway.

Fire chiefs also want crews to consider using a thermal imaging camera to locate missing people, especially at locations with poor lighting and visibility.

Black Country coroner Robin Balmain recorded a verdict of accidental death on Sara, a childcare student of Albion Road, West Bromwich, and Fayz, of Hanson Close, Smethwick, last month.

Mr Balmain said the emergency services at the scene had done all they could to help rescue the pair.

The inquest heard that Fayz had attempted to jump across the canal but fell short, and Sara jumped in after him.