The rescue occurred Aug. 9 at approximately 5:30 p.m. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

rescue operation

Downtown beach location of near drowning in La Ronge

Aug 10, 2023 | 2:38 PM

Emergency personnel were called to La Ronge’s downtown beach on Wednesday after an individual who was swimming was unable to make it back to shore.

That’s according to La Ronge RCMP Sgt. Brent Nicol, who stated in an email to larongeNOW that the call came in at 5:27 p.m. Officers, as well as members of La Ronge EMS and the La Ronge Regional Fire Department, attended the scene.

The fire department deployed a small watercraft to transport the individual to the beach. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

The rescue operation in its entirety took about 15 minutes. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

Nicol noted the individual was conscience when rescued by the fire department and they were transported to the La Ronge Health Centre. He mentioned the individual was able to leave the hospital later in the day.

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The La Ronge Regional Fire Department deployed a small watercraft to bring the individual to shore.

Fire Chief Keaton Cloud stated it is unknown at this time as to how the individual ended up in the water, but it was clear on arrival that they were in distress. One firefighter swam to the individual, while the rescue boat was being deployed.

“They were conscious but exhausted and confused when our firefighter made contact,” Cloud explained. “On multiple occasions, the individual was seen going underwater [and] the quick response time contributed to the success of the rescue. La Ronge EMS was on scene and immediately transported the patient to hospital.”

Cloud noted the incident is known as a non-fatal drowning. He added the deployment of a watercraft during rescue isn’t common and it only occurs about three times per year.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com