The kayakers were unable to make it back after rough water forced them ashore. Chris Newel file.

The kayakers were unable to make it back after rough water forced them ashore. Chris Newel file.

RCMP rescue stranded kayakers

This past Saturday, June 23, Kimberley RCMP responded to a call for help from some stranded kayakers.

This past Saturday, June 23, Kimberley RCMP responded to a call for help from some stranded kayakers.

Sgt. Chris Newel of the Kimberley Detachment says that the kayakers had been heading down St. Mary’s River when the water got too rough. They were able to make it to shore, but on the opposite side. Once, ashore, they couldn’t get back to the other side. They called Kimberley RCMP.

Kimberley Search and Rescue were activated through Emergency Management BC, but in the meantime an RCMP officer was able to get to the other side and hike in to the kayakers.

He escorted them out and drove them back to Kimberley, Newel said. No one was injured.

It is however, a timely reminder that water is still running fast and you need to be prepared any time you head out into the bush.

“A reminder to those taking part in potentially high risk sports to make sure you are aware of the challenges and prepare accordingly,” Newel said.

Kimberley Bulletin