Accident Database: Accident #54
| River: | Cache La Poudre |
| Section: | 7. Mishiwaka Inn to Poudre Park Picnic Ground |
| Location: | Mishawaka Rapids |
| Water Level: | High |
| Difficulty: | IV |
| Accident Code(s): | Long Swim (L.S.) |
| Injury Code(s): | Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal |
| Age: | 63 |
| Experienced/Inexperienced: | Experienced |
| Private/Commercial: | Private |
| Boat Type: | Kayak - Unknown |
| Number of Occupants: | 1 |
| Number of Victims: | 1 |
| Hazard Codes: | Water Temp |
| Detailed Description: | A 63 year-old kayaker drowned after flipping and swimming in Mishawaka Rapid, the hardest drop on the "Bridges" section of the Poudre. After recirculating in a hole/ eddy combination at the base of the drop he became helpless. His companions gave chase, but were unable to rescue him in the fast, eddyless Class III-IV rapids below. He was eventually rescued by commercial rafters from Boulder Outdoor Center. CPR was begun immediately, and a heartbeat was restored. He was transferred to paramedics and life-flighted to Boulder, where he died that evening. SOURCE: Eric Bader, Boulder Outdoor School |
| Conclusions: | Anyalysis: Helping an unconscious or helpless person in whitewater is very difficult. It usually has to be a swimming rescue, and that can be pretty dangerous for the rescuer. The raft was clearly the best rescue boat available. The man was not wearing a wetsuit; only polypropylene and a paddle jacket. This probably contributed to his helplessness. |
| Report Status: | Completed |