Men describe rescuing passengers of Northeast Airlines plane after it crashed into the East River

George and the narrator were preparing to leave when they heard engines fail and a crash. They quickly went to the site and found a plane in the water with people on the wings. They rescued around 25 people, with a commercial tug arriving later to assist. The rescued individuals were cold and wet but mostly unharmed. The rescuers transferred them to a tug for warmth and then to a police station.

How many people did they rescue altogether?

What actions did they take to ensure the rescued individuals were warm and comfortable?