CHESAPEAKE, Va. — The high heat Friday contributed to a water rescue in Chesapeake. Around 4:44 p.m., a kayaker on Lake Drummond called 911 to report a medical emergency. Officials with the Chesapeake Fire Department said two men were kayaking when one suffered a heat-related illness.
The kayakers started their journey at 1:30 p.m. but were unable to return to the launch ramp due to the extreme heat, firefighters said.
The fire department deployed several units to get the two men back to shore, including a fire boat and a swift water rescue company. To reach the kayakers, crews launched from the Dismal Swamp Canal ramp on Ballahack Road and used a feeder ditch to reach Lake Drummond. Chesapeake Police also responded and assisted with the successful rescue.
Medics on a rescue boat assed the patient and began treating him before taking him to another medic unit for more care. We're told medics released the man on the scene and did not have to take him to a hospital.
The Chesapeake Fire Department is reminding people to take caution when planning outdoor activities during extreme temperatures. Officials say everyone should have enough water to stay hydrated and a reliable means of communication in case of emergency.
