An ASDA worker in Maidstone is being hailed as a hero after his quick actions saved a man from drowning in the River Medway.
Dan Fiveash, 31, was on his break at the ASDA Living store on St Peters Street when he heard shouting coming from the river. Without hesitation, he rushed towards the noise and saw a man clinging to reeds in the fast-moving water.
Dan explained:
“I saw someone in the river holding onto the reeds. We’d had a lot of rainfall in the previous days, so the banks had burst, and the water levels seemed to be a lot higher than usual. Without thinking, I just grabbed the life ring and threw it to him.”
Rescue Mission
Holding onto the life ring, Dan simultaneously made a 999 call, requesting the fire service, ambulance, and police.
“The man in the water was quite calm, and I just kept reassuring him until the emergency services arrived,” Dan said. “It was cold and dark, and I didn’t know how much longer he was going to be able to hold on, so my main focus was just holding on and constantly talking to him.”
Emergency services, including two fire engines, the water safety unit, Kent Police, and South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECamb), arrived within minutes and managed to bring the 63-year-old man to safety.
Back to Work
After the rescue, Dan returned to his shift, where curious colleagues asked where he had been. Dan modestly explained the situation, but his manager and fellow workers were quick to acknowledge his heroic actions.
“People say that I should feel proud, but for me, it was just a natural thing to do,” Dan reflected. “It didn’t cross my mind to not help. The person in the water needed assistance.”
ASDA Store Manager Paul Wiedeholz praised Dan, stating:
“We think it’s terrific that Dan acted so quickly during his break. ASDA is part of the community, and it shows how focused we are on caring for our customers and community. We think Dan is a hero.”
Praise from Fire and Rescue Service
Crew Manager David from Maidstone Fire Station also applauded Dan’s efforts:
“Dan absolutely made the right call that day. His quick thinking and heroic actions meant that Kent Fire and Rescue Service could bring the man to safety efficiently.
Safety Campaign
Following the incident, Kent Fire and Rescue Service has launched the Make the Right Call campaign, aimed at educating the public on how to respond to water rescues.
“For inland water rescues in Kent or Medway, always call 999 and ask for the fire service. For rescues at sea, it’s the Coastguard,” the service advised.
Community Reaction
The story has since gone viral on social media, with many calling Dan a hero for his quick thinking and selfless actions. One local resident commented:
“Not all heroes wear capes. Sometimes they wear ASDA uniforms.”
Dan remains humble, insisting he just did what anyone else would have done in the same situation. Nonetheless, his actions have undoubtedly saved a life and made a lasting impact on the community.
