Duluth Fire Department makes emergency water rescue

The Duluth Fire Department made a water emergency rescue Friday evening.

Crews responded to the report of a person in distress,clinging to a log in the water.

Duluth Fire Department quickly launched marine resources and other land-based fire companies to the area to locate the victim and to make access to him.

The victim was located about one hundred yards offshore in the 4000 block area of Minnesota Avenue.

A rescue swimmer from Duluth Fire Department’s Rescue Company 1 made his way to the victim from shore on a rescue surf board. Upon making access to the victim, marine units from Duluth Fire arrived on site.

The distressed swimmer was taken aboard Marine 19 for medical evaluation. He was later brought to shore and walked away under his own power. He was not injured.

Other agencies including the U.S. Coast Guard, St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, St. Louis County Rescue Squad and Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service also responded to provide
assistance.

Following the incident, the City of Duluth put out the following statement: "Swimmers should be reminded that even a light offshore breeze can carry a person far enough from shore to become dangerous. Winds can become stronger farther offshore to make the problem worse. Swimmers should always be aware of their swimming abilities and weather conditions before entering the water, even on days with good weather."