Uncategorized

Salem Fire Department rescues family stranded in Willamette River

A Salem Fire Department boat out rescuing a family stranded on the Willamette River on Sunday, Jan. 17. (Courtesy/Salem Fire Department)

The Salem Fire Department rescued a family of three and a dog stranded in a boat in the Willamette River on Sunday. 

The family attempted to row their 14-foot boat after it lost power. But after their paddle broke and with only one life jacket, they chose to anchor and call for help, the department said in a news release.

The department responded after 2 p.m. with one of its boats and safely brought the family and their dog back to Wallace Marine Park. In the news release, the department reminded the public to make sure that every passenger on a boat has a life jacket that is sized and available while out on the water.