Rash Of Water Rescues In Kirkland Prompts Safety Warning

KIRKLAND, WA - Kirkland fire department rescue swimmers have performed three separate rescues in recent weeks. The department wants to remind swimmers and boaters how to stay safe to prevent further injuries.

There have been zero drownings in Lake Washington in Kirkland since the department founded its water rescue program. But in 2017, the department responded to 43 water emergencies, including swimmers in distress and sinking boats.

Some of the recent incidents include:

Aug. 17 - Three people and a dog were stranded 75 feet offshore hanging on to a piling in the water. Kirkland firefighters were able to rescue the swimmers in about 15 minutes, before units from King County and Seattle made it to the scene.

Aug. 11 - In high winds caused choppy waters on Lake Washington, a man fell off his jet ski and got separated from the vessel around 5 p.m. about 1,500 feet offshore. The man was wearing a life jacket, but it didn't fit well, according to firefighters. The man was only in the water for about 15 minutes before Lt. Joel Bodenman, Capt. Bill Henderson and rescue swimmers Kevin Martin and Tyrel Koistinen could execute a rescue.

Aug. 7 - A man in his 30s was in distress while swimming in Lake Washington near Marina Park. He was pulled from the water by a Good Samaritan and transported to Everegreen Hospital by Kirkland firefighters.

Here are some water safety tips from the city of Kirkland:

• Water Safety Tips from the Redcross
• Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well. The City of Kirkland Parks and Community Services Department operates seasonal aquatics programs at the Peter Kirk Pool.
• Complete the mandatory boater education. Washington State law requires that operators of motorboats with 15 horsepower or greater take a boater education class and obtain a boater education card. For more information, visit www.parks.wa.gov/boating/boatered/ or call 360-902-8555.
• Wear a life jacket. Washington State law requires children ages 12 years and younger to wear a Coast Guard approved lifejacket or vest on vessels less than 19 feet long. Make sure life jackets are in good repair and fit properly.
• Carry extra safety equipment. Have extra anchors, flares, electronic equipment to find your way home, and a good bilge pump.
• Designate a sober driver. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, alcohol use is the primary contributing factor in fatal recreational boating accidents in the U.S. In Washington, boating under the influence (BUI) of drugs or alcohol or boating recklessly is against the law. Alcohol affects both judgment and reactions, and its effects are more pronounced on the water.
• Don’t overload your boat. Small open boats under 20 feet have a capacity plate on the stern that tells how much weight and how many people it can hold safely.
• Be weather wise. Sudden wind shifts, lightning flashes and choppy water may indicate stormy weather.
• Watch your moves. Limit movement and keep weight low to avoid capsizing or falling overboard. Take two trips if necessary to keep the weight in the boat low.
• Stay with your boat. In case of capsizing or swamping, you should stay with your boat. Even when filled with water, the boat will provide some flotation and is easier to see by potential rescuers.
• Dress appropriately. Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Assess the wind and wave conditions to decide if you are prepared for potential cold-water conditions. Check weather forecasts before leaving home and be aware of changing conditions. And take along extra clothing for children - they get cold faster than adults.
• Stay in communication. Bring your cell phone in a waterproof zip lock bag. If you have cell phone service, you can call for help without removing the phone from the bag.

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