Minor injuries reported after water rescue on the Eau Claire River
By WEAU News, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Published: Jul. 20, 2022
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) - Minor injuries are reported after a water rescue team was called for four teenagers who got stuck in the Eau Claire River Wednesday afternoon.
The Eau Claire Fire Department says the tubers were floating down the river when the current drove them into a tree hanging over the water on the South side of the Eau Claire River upstream of the Dewey Street Bridge. Crews were able to supply life vests to them, before pulling them out on ropes.
The Department says while it can be fun to be out on the water, it’s important to be careful when floating on the river.
“The water is rushing and it’s a little higher than usual. And it is fast in that area. And if you’re not familiar with the river, it’ll suck you right into these what we call strainers. And then you’re stuck there. The water actually opens up against the trees and you don’t feel like you can let go,” Joe Kelly, ECFD Battalion Chief, said.
The Eau Claire Fire Department says in a media release the victim’s were rescued safely having suffered some minor injuries including “bumps and bruises.” In addition, one firefighter suffered minor injuries when a rock fell off the steep shore line and struck him in the head, shoulders, and back.
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