Around 1:30 pm Tuesday afternoon, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office marine patrol deputies and Fire District 3 were dispatched to a water rescue near Dodge Bridge. Dispatch stated that a boat had capsized, leaving two individuals to swim to a nearby island for safety.
A boat carrying two men crashed into a large branch in the water, causing the boat to overturn and sink. The men were able to get to an island, where they were picked up by rescuers with Fire Districts 3 and 4. Nobody was injured.
Fortunately one of the individuals on the boat had a phone in their pocket which allowed them to text for help. This communication continued to be useful throughout the rescue.
Within a few minutes of the search, crews found the occupants a quarter mile from the Dodge Bridge launch site. Mercy Flights Inc was on the scene, however, both individuals were without injury, just cold from the water.
Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was also able to locate the boat. They will be working with the owners on the retrieval. Deputies will then work to remove the hazard that caused the mishap from the river.
Fire District 3 responded with two fire engines, two type six engines, a technical rescue team, and a drone pilot. In addition, Jackson County Fire District 4 and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office arrived with their rescue boats.
Marine patrol deputies remind boaters that the Rogue River can be unforgiving. Changes in river flow cause trees, branches, and other debris to move or to appear without warning. Deputies offer the following safety tips:
- Always scout your passage for hazards before floating through.
- Always wear a life jacket while boating; simply having one in the boat will not help you in an emergency.
- Carry your cell phone in a waterproof carrier attached to your person.
- Call 911 directly if you need help — don’t call a friend or family member instead.
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