Man and woman rescued by Rocky RCMP after raft capsizes

No one was injured after an inflatable boat capsized in a dangerous section of the North Saskatchewan River over the long weekend.
 
On Sunday at 5:30 p.m., Rocky RCMP were conducting a pro-active patrol in a police jet boat as part of the May Long Weekend Joint Task Force Operation.
 
During the patrol, the officers observed a small inflatable boat, with an adult male and female, overturn in the river.
 
The male was not wearing a life jacket and the female was wearing one that was too large for her body size. Both individuals were struggling in the rapids and their safety was in jeopardy in the fast water and current.
 
RCMP say the male was desperately trying to hang onto the female who was also being pulled under due to the weight. Fortunately, the woman was able to keep the life jacket on long enough to stay above water.
 
In the end, RCMP were able to quickly maneuver the police boat into position and rescue both individuals, who are residents of Rocky Mountain House.
 
No one was seriously injured and alcohol is not believed to be a factor.

RCMP add that the incident is a reminder to recreational users of the rivers and lakes to always wear approved life preservers which are properly fitted and to familiarize themselves with the hazards of being on the waterways.