A dozen kayakers, including six children, were rescued off the BC coast this week.
Just before 2 pm on Thursday, the US Coast Guard (USCG) broadcast that two families travelling in six kayaks were in distress between Patos Island and Sucia Island, WA.
The RCMP Federal Policing – Pacific Region Shiprider team were patrolling nearby waters and responded immediately.
The team worked alongside Washington State Park officials and the SUGC to get the group back to shore.
Officers said that two families had gone out on an overnight guided kayaking trip and encountered challenging waters on their way back.
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As the situation got worse, they made the wise decision to call for help, a news release said.
All 12 people were safely rescued and taken back to Orcas Island.
No injuries were reported but the group was "understandably shaken” after being caught in those conditions.
“While rescue operations are not typically our primary role, our presence on the water allows us to respond when emergencies arise, reflecting our shared commitment to public safety,” said RCMP Federal Policing- Pacific Region, Inspector Jim Leonard.
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