Stranded kayakers serve as summer warning

Tense moments on the Deschutes River Wednesday afternoon as two stranded kayakers had to be rescued from rocks in the middle of the river.

Witnesses say the two were coming down the river south of the Old Mill District when they got stuck in some rocks just before the Bill Healy Bridge.

“We saw a kayak stuck on a rock, and people had to stand on the rock because they were afraid to swim, even though they have life jackets on,” said Maggie Hoff.

After about 30 minutes, the two were taken to shore by a Bend Fire kayak.

For many who watched, it comes as a timely reminder to be safe on the water.

“It wakes you up a little bit,” said Katie Hoff. “You have to always be aware. If it’s a calm day, you can get into trouble. You have to watch what’s around you.”

As the warmer temperatures return to the High Desert, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue advise you to be prepared.

They say the one thing they really stress is to always have a life jacket when you are out on the water.

“Half of all boating fatalities happen because people aren’t wearing their life jacket.” said Deputy Mike Biondi.

If you plan to take the boat to the high lakes or a local river, officials want to remind you, anyone under the age of 13 must have a life jacket on.

If you are over 12, one life jacket must be accessible for every person on the boat.

Search and rescue also say area waterways are still really cold and that even the best swimmers should use caution as the mercury rises.