The outdoor adventure playground that makes Campbell River a wonderful place to live and visit can also turn deadly on a moment’s notice.
That’s what some Campbell River youths learned on the river last weekend. A benign float down the river on inner tubes one day turned into a life and death struggle the next day at the very same spot. That the six young men involved in the harrowing incident survived is a great blessing for them and their families. Their survival serves as a reminder to all those who would play in this natural environment that they need to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to mitigate them.
These youths were doing what hundreds have done before them without mishap but conditions change even from day to day, never mind season to season.
That search and rescue swiftwater specialist Jamie Turko predicted the possibility of just such an incident only days before also reminds us that we do have knowledgeable professionals who can provide the training that allows us to enjoy the natural adventure that lies on our doorstep. Take advantage of it. Nobody is saying that we should shy away from our great outdoors but it is important to be aware of the risks and prepare yourself to deal with them. There are many organizations that teach and preach these principles. But being prepared is no guarantee either. Things still happen to the most skilled outdoorspeople. It’s their training and knowledge that gets them through the ordeal.
We’re thankful the group of youngsters on the river Sunday came through unhurt. Let their story serve as a reminder to all.
– Campbell River Mirror
