Michigan man rescued from Island Park Reservoir after flipping his kayak

ISLAND PARK – A Michigan man is safe after flipping his kayak in Island Park Reservoir.

It happened on Thursday around 3 p.m. in the Box Canyon Area, according to a news release from Fremont County Search and Rescue.

It’s not clear what caused him to flip, but the 36-year-old, whose name wasn’t specified, reportedly sustained minor injuries. A rescue team found the man and took him downstream in a Cataraft to Last Chance where he met up with family members.

“This can be a treacherous part of the Snake River as the water is swift. When the water level is lower, more rocks and other debris are exposed, making boating and fishing experiences dangerous,” the news release says.

Fremont County officials are reminding the public to be safe when recreating on the water or in the backcountry and to always have someone with you. They offer the following safety tips:

• Use extreme caution whether snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, camping, boating, ATVing, trail riding, biking, hiking, etc. Pay special attention to your location.
• Watch for landmarks, etc. that could potentially help rescuers locate you. Fremont County has many canyons, hills, ravines, etc. and a person can quickly become disoriented and confused.
• No matter the time of year, dress appropriately for your activities, take necessary equipment, survival gear, etc. when venturing into the backcountry.
• The 32 square miles of waters-ways in Fremont County (lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, canals, etc.) are unpredictable, sometimes potentially dangerous, and can quickly turn an enjoyable activity into disaster.
• Snowmobiling in mountainous areas can be deceiving, easily finding yourself stranded in a ravine or avalanche area. Stick together as much as possible. Check local avalanche warnings, if available.
• If you have a GPS, cell phone, FRS or GMRS radio, etc. be sure to take them with you, but do not rely entirely on them for a safe rescue if you find yourself in trouble and need assistance. Find the emergency channel for the area, if available. Make sure all members of your party are monitoring the same channel.
• Plan ahead. Make sure you know the area you are heading into before heading into it. If possible, avoid participating in activities without a buddy or companion. Tell someone WHERE you are going, stick to that plan, narrow the area, and let someone know WHEN you are to return! If you find yourself in trouble, stop, take a look around you, make mental notes or write them down in relation to any features or landmarks that would assist in your rescue. Do not go any farther unless you are in danger. The farther you go, the more complicated and dangerous it is to get yourself to safety, making rescue efforts more difficult and dangerous.