At approximately 16:30 on Monday, Nov. 22, Aux 35 was tasked out by JRCC to the Craigflower Bridge area of the Gorge Waterway for an adrift kyack. Monday was the onset of a cold snap and conditions were: -5 degrees, 25-35 kt wind and light snow. 


After a very cold transit through Victoria Harbour, Upper Harbour and the Gorge Waterway, coxswain Shawn Heise and Training Officer Mike Deigan navigated the Zodiac Hurricane 733 through the Tillicum Bridge tidal rapids and on to the Craigflower Bridge.


Once on scene, Aux 35 liaised with Saanich Police and Saanich Fire, learned that the kyack had been recovered and a preliminary search of the area had already been conducted. Aux 35 assisted in a more thourough shoreline search of Portage Inlet, Craigflower Bridge and the Gorge Waterway to the south to Tillicum Bridge. Another kyack was found adrift, but no other signs of persons in distress. 


All emergency services personnel were stood down by Rescue Center at approximately 18:15.


A reminder to all vessel and recreational craft owners to secure your property for the winter storm season!


Mike Deigan
Station 35, Crew 3