A group of four tourists recently found themselves in some significant trouble while paddling around Ucluelet.
The tourists were exploring Ucluelet’s coastline on Aug. 1 in two kayaks and two small inflatable rafts, according to Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Marine Controller Dylan Carter.
Carter told the Westerly News that several 911 calls came in from locals who had spotted the paddlers and were concerned about their safety in the rough waves.
The JRCC then received a call from a local citizen who advised he had rescued the tourists around 7:30 p.m.
The concerned citizen had spotted the tourists in trouble and was able to bring them safely onshore the Chrow Islands near Ucluelet, ensuring everyone was safe and accounted for before letting the JRCC know the tourists were no longer in danger, according to Carter.
Carter encourages anyone who spots any mariners in distress, or anyone who has been involved in a rescue, to let the JRCC know about it at 1-800-567-5111.
“It’s always helpful when people call in,” he said.
“Whether they’re seeing something or whether they’ve helped out or anything like that. The more information the better for us.”
The tourists escaped the incident with no significant injuries.
andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca