A man was saved from the swift-moving waters of the Fraser River in Chilliwack with the help of technology.
At about 8:30 a.m. on July 28, a man was calling for help from the river near Old Orchard Road and Arnold Road.
Several officers responded immediately, said Const. Bradley Holditch of the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment, including the Integrated Police Dog Service (IPDS) and the detachment’s Indigenous Policing Services (IPS).
He said that when officers arrived, they found the man trapped in the river, “standing in swift-moving water and unable to safely make his way to shore.”
“Given the dynamic and hazardous conditions, rescue efforts were rapidly coordinated using specialized resources,” he added.
The officers from IPDS used a remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) to successfully deliver a brightly coloured personal flotation device (PFD) to the man.
“The innovative use of the RPAS provided the man with immediate flotation support and reassurance while rescue crews developed a safe recovery plan,” Holditch said.
Moments later, the IPS members deployed a jet boat navigating through the “challenging river conditions.”
The man was pulled aboard and taken to shore, where he was assessed by paramedics.
Holditch said the man expressed his gratitude to responding officers and to the passerby who heard him and called 911.
“It was a successful and positive outcome to a risky and complex situation,” said Const. Marc Verreault, UFVRD IPS jet boat operator. “The Fraser River has strong currents, cold waters, shallow gravel bars, and log jams that can create several hazards for people who fall into the river, as well as for their rescuers.”
Holditch said the detachment wants “to recognize the collaborative efforts of all responding personnel.”
They are also remind the public to exercise extreme caution when near or on the Fraser River.
“River conditions can change rapidly and become dangerous without warning,” Holditch added.