NIGHT WATER RESCUE ON THE WILLAMETTE

Albany Fire Dept.

Albany Fire responded to Bryant Park on Tuesday, February 10, at 10:06 p.m. for a report of a man and woman in distress. Crews were advised that at least one person was down a river embankment.

 

AFD dispatched two Rescue Watercraft (RWC), three ambulances, and 13 firefighters to the scene. One patient was rescued from the bank of the Willamette River and transported to a local hospital for observation.

 

AFD water rescue personnel entered the Willamette River at Bowman Park and searched upstream to Bryant Park. A female and her dogs were located down a steep embankment. Before the woman could be moved, the dogs were secured. Rescue personnel then loaded the patient onto an RWC and transported her to waiting EMS crews. There was no safe exit from the river at that location other than climbing back up the embankment. The dogs were able to climb back into the park on their own.

 

Battalion Chief Ben Cooper stated, “Any water response, particularly at night, carries significant risk for our personnel. The situation is further complicated by swift currents and cold-water temperatures.” The current temperature of the Willamette River is 46 degrees. Cold water incapacitation can occur within 10–15 minutes of immersion and can result in loss of muscle control. AFD deploys multiple watercrafts during water rescue responses, designating a primary rescue craft along with one or more safety craft for personnel protection.

 

This incident serves as a serious reminder that river conditions can be dangerous. Emergency responders are highly trained and prepared for these situations, but we need the public’s help to stay safe. Please take time to research and understand the area where you plan to recreate.