North Highlands Performs Water Rescue

At approximately 3:38 p.m., members of the North Highlands Fire Department were dispatched for a water rescue at The Gorge, which is located off Horton Road.

Members responded aboard Rescue 21-6-2 and, upon arrival, met with family members who reported that two swimmers, an adult male and a female child were trapped in the water at the base of the waterfall.

The two swimmers had made several attempts to swim out of the waterfall’s spillway but had become exhausted by the swift-moving water. Unable to safely reach shore, both were clinging to the cliffside while firefighters began rescue operations.

Firefighters quickly deployed an extension ladder into the water to provide the swimmers with a means of escape. At the same time, additional members prepared water-rescue equipment in the event firefighters needed to enter the gorge.

Fortunately, both swimmers were able to reach the ladder and climb to safety. Within a short period of time, both individuals were safely back on shore.

The North Highlands Fire Department is grateful for the quick and positive outcome of this incident and the work of our responding members.

We would also like to remind everyone to use extra caution when swimming in natural waterways. Recent heavy rainstorms can dramatically increase water levels, current speed, and the force of water around waterfalls and spillways. Conditions that may normally appear manageable can quickly become dangerous, even for capable swimmers.

Please use good judgment around swift-moving water, keep children closely supervised, and remember that water conditions can be very different following periods of heavy rainfall.

Incidents like this are a reminder of the wide variety of emergencies our volunteers are called upon to handle. From fires and motor vehicle accidents to medical emergencies and rescues, our members train year-round to be ready when our community needs us.

We are always looking for new members. If you are interested in joining our team, learning new skills, and providing lifesaving services to your community, we encourage you to fill out a membership application through our website.