Two men had a close call Saturday afternoon when their kayaks capsized in the swift current of Otter Creek.
They ran into trouble in the area of Dennis Road and Calton Line, east of Calton, and the Bayham Fire Department and paramedics responded to the scene where a third kayaker directed them to the pair in the water, clinging to a branch.
Bayham’s water rescue team was able to use an inflatable craft tethered to the shore to reach the two men who were treated on the scene by paramedics.
Bayham Fire Chief Harry Baranik noted the fact the two were wearing personal floatation devices likely saved their lives.
The Long Point Conservation Authority had issued a flood warning in the area noting the dangers along Otter Creek.
Baranik stressed the importance of complying with the warnings issued by the conservation authority and for people to stay away from the banks and rivers.
He added the fact these parties were kayaking down the Otter Creek under these conditions, not only did they risk their lives, but they also risked the lives of the first responders who had to go out in those dangerous conditions and rescue them.
One of the kayaks was found Sunday morning several kilometres downstream, however, due to the dangerous water conditions it was left in place for the time being.
