A close call for two kayakers on Mission Creek Monday afternoon serves as a reminder to stay away from fast moving water this time of year.

Platoon Capt. Scott Cronquist says it’s best to stay out of the creek during spring run off, as the water is not as safe as it may look.

Despite warnings to the public, many do venture into the waters around Kelowna and are often caught up in a current they can’t control. That's why firefighters train for swift water rescue once a year.

“We have four teams, one each shift on duty has a team and we try and train in swift water once a year,” Cronquist said. “We do other disciplines like high-angle and confined space, and we do those once a year also.”

Cronquist said members of the Kelowna Fire Department are most often called out in the spring, when creek water is at its highest.

“We are called out about 10 times a year for reports of people in the creek. The water can really get gnarly going down the creek and can be quiet dangerous in numerous places.”

Firefighters tested their skills on Mission Creek Tuesday, with attempts at live bait swims and scenario training such as tension diagonal rescue.  

Photo: Contributed