All four family members were wearing personal flotation devices and firefighters were able to perform the rescue quickly and efficiently. No one was injured in the incident.

With hot temperatures expected to continue throughout the week, TVF&R Public Information Officer Lysa Vattimo reminds those who plan to be on or around area waterways to swim with a buddy, keep a close eye on children, and wear personal flotation devices (PFDs). “All four members of this family were wearing PFDs, they held onto their canoe, and a bystander who noticed the family was in trouble called 9-1-1 right away. All these things combined with a quick response by a highly-trained water rescue team resulted in a positive outcome.”

If you see or hear someone in trouble in the water:
• Call 911 immediately - time is of the essence;
• Try to throw the victim a flotation device, but don't become a victim yourself;
• Use landmarks to determine where you last saw the victim and where you are standing so you can take rescue crews back to the site;
• Take notice of the victim's clothing; and
• Encourage other bystanders to stay on scene.

Station 59 is home to the TVF&R water rescue team which includes a highly-trained group of rescue personnel with specialized vehicles and equipment. In addition to fire and medical calls, the team also responds to swift-water rescues, boaters and swimmers in distress, vehicles submerged in water, and people stranded on rocks or the water. Station 59 serves the tight-knit community of West Linn and participates in several of the area’s community events.