On November 9, 1997 Kishacoquillas Creek (the Kish ), a Class II run in central Pennsylvania , was running at near flood levels following heavy rains. Jay Ernest, 47, an experienced paddler, was kayaking with two friends when they reached a low-head dam. The first paddler went over the dam,  flipped, and was trapped in the hydraulic. Mr. Ernest, the second paddler followed with similar results. Both were recirculated in the hydraulic below the dam for some time. The third paddler went to shore, portaged the dam, and attempted to rescue his friends. The first paddler was able to fight his way out of the hydraulic and made it to shore; Mr. Ernest was unconscious when he was ejected. The first paddler pulled Mr. Ernest to shore and began CPR while the third ran for help. Rescue squads responded quickly, but Mr. Ernest never regained consciousness. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

SOURCE: PA Fish Commission small craft accident summary; Dave Guss; Lewistown Sentinel

ANALYSIS:

1. (Walbridge) Dams are dangerous except when only a very small amount of water is flowing over it. At high water, this one created a very dangerous hydraulic. Anyone lacking extensive experience and excellent water reading ability should portage dams without question.

2. (PFC) The victim was wearing a PFD but no wetsuit or cold weather gear. Hypothermia may also have played a role in the drowning.