The Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District (SHFAD) was dispatched to the scene of two stranded kayakers on Saturday, June 22, at 12:01 p.m.
According to a press release, the kayaks flipped while the kayakers were traversing rapids beneath Green Peter Dam. Water was being released from Green Peter Dam at the time, which caused water levels to rapidly rise, thus increasing water flow and strengthening rapids.
The kayakers were traveling downriver and were unable to maintain control, leading the kayaks to flip. The kayakers were able to swim to shore, but found themselves trapped on an outcropping between the water and thick brush and briars at the base of a steep hillside.
According to the press release, once on scene, the responding incident commander was able to make visual contact with the stranded kayakers who were approximately 200 feet down the embankment. A lowering system was made so responding rescue personnel, wearing harnesses, could safely navigate down the embankment whilst also clearing the thick vegetation with a machete.
Once contact was made, it was determined both parties were uninjured. Both kayakers were assisted up the embankment and to the road.
“This is a good reminder that Green Peter Dam routinely lets water out which can quickly and drastically change the condition of the river below it,” SHFAD stated. “Be prepared with proper safety equipment and plan accordingly when enjoying our local waterways.”
SHFAD responded with one battalion chief vehicle, one medic and one rescue vehicle with a total of eight personnel.