Canoeist Dumped into Spokane River
Incident #: 2011028633 Date of Incident: 7/20/2011 Issuing Officer: Craig Cornelius / BC
Narrative:
On Wednesday July 20, 2011 at 12:46 PM, Spokane Fire Dispatch received a "3rd party" 911 call reporting that a person was in the Spokane River, possibly needing help. The person was reported to be in the area of the TJ Meenach Bridge, below Spokane Falls Community College. City fire crews from 4 stations were sent to the bridge to search for the possible victim. A Command Post was established on the bridge deck. Meanwhile, Firefighters and Police Officers attempted to gather information from witnesses to assist in directing the search efforts. 12 Firefighters from the combined City/Valley Water Rescue Team searched using kayaks and a jet boat. Spokane PD located an 80 year old male on Summit Blvd. He had been canoeing with a friend in a red canoe. The canoe tipped dumping both paddlers into the current. The canoeist reported that he and his friend had both been wearing personal floatation devices (PFDs). He also provided a detailed description of the other paddler. Search crews located the other paddler on shore approximately 2 miles upstream. Both men were in relatively good condition considering their ordeal. Thirty-six personnel from area fire and police agencies participated in this search. The outcome could have ended tragically had the two not been wearing their PFDs. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind all floaters that a PFD is required by county ordinance to be worn by each person on the water. Every boater should be properly equipped and have adequate training and skill before attempting a run down the river. Water flows are swifter and colder than normal, and sections of the river can be very hazardous for those who are unprepared.
Cause:
Not Applicable
Damage:
NA
# Firefighters Repsonding: 25
End Of Release For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002
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