A stranded boater was rescued Thursday on Clearwater Lake through the combined efforts of lake residents and first responders.
The Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office was called just before 1 p.m. for a stranded boater on Clearwater Lake in Nokay Lake Township, east of Brainerd. Sheriff’s deputies, along with crews from the Deerwood Fire Department and Crosby ambulance, responded to the scene.
Residents on shore launched a Jet Ski and aided in the recovery of an uninjured 35-year-old Big Lake man, the sheriff’s office reported. The small, 8-foot watercraft he was operating with a trolling motor became unable to navigate back to shore due to windy conditions.
Sheriff Scott Goddard, in a news release, expressed his appreciation to the residents and first responders who acted quickly to help a boater in distress.
“This is a great example of neighbors looking out for neighbors which lead to a successful outcome,” Sheriff Goddard stated.
ADVERTISEMENT
Goddard reminds boaters to wear proper life jackets and have all necessary safety equipment onboard their watercraft, as the lakes area is entering the busy boating season.
“I want to emphasize that boating safety needs to be in the forefront of everyone’s mind who takes to the water,” he stated.
Visit dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/boatwater/index.html for a complete guide on water safety regulations.
