Early Friday morning, a kayaking trip on the Sabine River in Smith County, Texas, turned into a rescue operation when two kayaks overturned, leaving four individuals in need of assistance. The incident occurred near Highway 155 close to Big Sandy, with each kayak carrying two people.

Swift Response from Local Agencies

Texas Game Warden Chris Swift reported that the call for help came in around 3 a.m. Multiple agencies, including the Texas Department of Public Safety, Smith County Sheriff’s Office, Wood County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tyler Fire Department, quickly responded to the scene. Thanks to their coordinated efforts, all four individuals were safely brought to shore without any reported injuries.

The kayaks had been launched from FM 14 in Hawkins, and after the incident, the individuals managed to swim to a riverbank. It was from there that a call for help was made, prompting the swift response from local authorities.

Community and Safety

This incident highlights the importance of community readiness and the effectiveness of local emergency services in ensuring public safety. The quick action by the involved agencies underscores their commitment to protecting residents and visitors alike. As summer activities on local waterways increase, this serves as a reminder of the potential risks and the need for vigilance and preparedness.

Original reporting: CBS19 / KYTX (Tyler) — read the source article.