The Saskatoon Fire Department rescued a person who had been swept into the South Saskatchewan River on Saturday.

Saskatoon Fire’s Communications Center received emergency calls at 11:57 a.m. for a person in distress in the South Saskatchewan River. The person was reported as being swept with the fast moving current towards the weir. One fire engine, one water rescue unit, and the battalion chief were dispatched. Medavie Ambulance company was notified to respond to the scene by the Saskatoon Fire Department.

It was also reported that a person on a sea-doo was attempting to keep the person from being carried further downstream with the current.

Water rescue 1 was on the river at 12:03 p.m. and the water rescue team retrieved the person, transporting the patient to Medavie’s care. Status of the patient is unknown at this time.

The Saskatoon Fire Department is reminding residents that the river is currently flowing at a rate that is 4 – 6 times its average speed and it will reach peak flow by Monday, due to rainfall water being released at the Diefenbaker Dam.

SFD wants to take this opportunity to remind everyone that the Water Security Agency is advising all persons to stay clear of the fast moving water at this time.