From Leo Burns
I shared the unfortunate details of a swimmer (tuber) drowning in front of me yesterday morning on the Rainbow River (no life jacket). What I like to share with this group is the learnings I took away as a solo kayaker.
I passed the drowning victim- he was now beneath his tube… and turned back up current to attempt my rescue. (2-2.5 mph current). I was 20’ below him and called out to other tubers to call 911 drowning victim… and I rolled my into my wet exit.
First mistake… I should’ve paddled 20’ above him.
Second mistake… Kayak/paddle discarded… I started swimming… with hat,sunglasses, life jacket, tow rope and paddle shoes… nightmare.
I was exhausted, couldn’t hold position to reach the body… diving down 5’ to reach him proved nearly impossible.
Yes the accident occurred on Sunday morning, July 14. It was on the Rainbow River in Dunnellon, Florida. (3 miles north of blue run, or 2 miles south of the headspring).
The rescue unfolded… but we were unsuccessful… sad.
My learnings (shared)… 1) delay action, think longer; 2) Current wins… I swim 6000 yards a week… but I exhausted myself getting into location; 3) practice swimming with your gear… next time you’re out… secure your kayak and go for a short swim (take the necessary precautions)… what what your capable of and the effort required… I think you will be surprised.
