Multiple agencies helped rescue kayakers from the Kalamazoo River this evening, July 14.
Battle Creek Police and the Bedford Township Fire Department were called at 6:15 p.m. to the river near Custer Drive and River Road. One of the kayakers called dispatch to say several people in their group tipped their kayaks.
Battle Creek Police launched two drones to help find the group. They accounted for all 16 people along about a half-mile of the river.
Bedford Fire requested mutual aid from the Battle Creek Fire Department, Galesburg Fire, and Charleston/Ross Fire for help with boats. The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office and Calhoun County Dive Team also responded with a boat.
After about 90 minutes, everyone was rescued from the water, or was able to self-rescue. LifeCare Ambulance responded, and noted that no injuries were reported.
Police want to remind everyone to please be aware and cautious of the river flow while you enjoy the outdoors this summer, especially after heavy rain and when the river is visibly high and fast-flowing. Please wear a life jacket while on the water. The river level rose over a foot overnight Friday into Saturday, prompting the cancelation of the Kanoe the Kazoo event scheduled for Saturday.