It was no ordinary day last month when a local kayaker was rescued from the waters of Caney Fork River, adjacent to Center Hill Dam in Lancaster.

The rescuer was Kevin Salvilla, a U. S. Army Corps of Engineers employee.  No name has been released for the kayaker at press time.

According to varied reports, the kayaker stumbled upon some river underbrush, which caused the vessel to capsize.  At approximately 12:30 p.m., Salvilla received a distress call reporting a kayaker clinging to a tree in the river after capsizing.  During this same time, he learned the victim was not wearing a life jacket and was submerged while showing signs of hypothermia.  Salvilla was assisted by the DeKalb County Rescue Squad.

Before returning him safely to shore, “We provided him with a life jacket, brought him into our boat, and retrieved his equipment before returning him safely to shore,” Salvilla recounted.  “He was treated for hypothermia by DeKalb EMS and released shortly thereafter.”

Salvilla continued, “Thankfully, he was able to call 911 using his cell phone, which was located in his shirt pocket.  This situation highlights the importance of being prepared, wearing a life jacket, and expecting the unexpected while on the water.”

Following an appreciation ceremony for the team’s recovery actions by Lt. Col. Robert Green, USACE, Nashville District Commander, the Corp. of Engineers reminded everyone to prioritize safety when engaging in water-based activities, especially during the colder months.  One of the main awareness portals is to be aware of generation (Dam) schedules.

“Wearing a life jacket, staying aware of environmental conditions, and having emergency equipment can make all the difference,” signed the Corps following last month's almost-drawing in DeKalb County.