Two local residents are being praised by the Mounties for their quick thinking and even fast action that saved a man and his son after they capsized their canoe in the Columbia River’s chilly waters.
A statement from RCMP Staff-Sgt. Jacquie Olsen Friday said the father and son were camping at Blanket Creek Provincial Park when they decided to go canoeing.
“They took their canoe out and during their trip both leaned to the same side, overturning it,” Olsen said. “They were able to grab onto a log and called for help.”
Brett Renaud and Park Manager Colin Titsworth “heard the screams for help… (and) were able to locate another canoe, then paddled out to the duo, bringing first the son, then the father, safely to shore.”
Paramedics treated both of them for mild hypothermia, they were otherwise unharmed. Both subjects were wearing life jackets at the time.
“The actions of Colin and Brett are extraordinary and both should be commended for their quick thinking and actions,” Olsen said.
