Two Kayakers With Hypothermia Rescued From Flathead Lake

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - Lake County Sheriff Don Bell told me on Tuesday afternoon that two kayakers were rescued from Flathead Lake last Thursday, July 25 by Lake County Search and Rescue after severe conditions on the lake caused both kayaks to capsize, putting the individuals into the frigid water.

Search and Rescue reached the pair after they spent over 40 minutes in the water, causing them to suffer from hypothermia.

The Two Kayakers Capsized in Rough Water

Sheriff Bell said both kayakers were saved due to the fact that they were each equipped with PFD’s (personal flotation devices).

Sheriff Bell devoted a large portion of his press release encouraging anyone on a body of water to always be protected by wearing a personal flotation device.

Sheriff Bell Encourages Everyone to use a Personal Flotation Device on the Water

“The Sheriff’s Office wishes to remind boaters to wear PFD’s and always be aware that conditions on Flathead Lake can change very rapidly, turning a pleasurable day into a sudden nightmare.  It takes time to muster a response to these emergencies, and time to travel across this huge body of water to reach those in need of help.  This is one of many calls our Search and Rescue have been busy with this summer, many of which resulted in successful rescue efforts, and sadly, one drowning.  The Sheriff’s Office wishes to thank our Search and Rescue units for their great work and volunteerism for our community.”

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Whether you are recreating on Flathead Lake or any of Missoula’s rivers, Sheriff Bell is joined by all local law enforcement personnel and first responders encouraging you to make sure that everyone is outfitted with a personal flotation device; to let someone know where you are floating or canoeing and when you plan to return.