On Monday, August 15th at around 4:45 PM, Stayton Fire District along with Jefferson Fire District water rescue team, Albany Fire Department water rescue team, Marion County Sheriff and Linn County Sheriff responded to a caller who was stranded on a rock in the river with his 13 year old daughter.
The incident occurred on the North Santiam River between Lyons and Stayton. The two were floating the river in a raft when it was punctured and deflated. They called 911 on a cell phone and remained on the rock wearing life jackets until a rescue boat from Linn County Sheriff reached them and safely returned them to the river bank. Neither of the victims were injured.
The victims did everything right, they were wearing their life jackets, called for help, and stayed put. With the victims help and the response from the Interagency Water Rescue Response Teams, everyone returned safely.
Water Safety Tips
- Always wear a life jacket
- When stranded, stay put until help arrives
- Dress appropriately for the water temperatures, the water is still cold
- Notify someone where you are going to and from, and when you expect to return
