RCMP in Bella Coola are crediting a tour operator, his guests, and the Nuxalk Coastal Guardian Watchmen for saving the lives of three young kayakers.
Police say the men were thrown into the frigid waters of the Pacific Ocean Friday when their kayaks capsized after encountering difficulties on rough seas.
They were luckily spotted by Leonard Ellis of Bella Coola Grizzly Tours who was hosting a tour on the North Bentnick Arm and decided that day to operate backwards.
He quickly issued a distress call and he and his guests immediately began rescue operations before the response of the Watchmen who completed the rescue and transported the men to local hospital.
“The swift actions of Mr. Ellis, his guests, and the Nuxalk Coastal Guardian Watchmen saved the lives of three young men” said Sgt. Rick Skolrood, Detachment Commander of the Bella Coola RCMP.
“It exemplifies the spirit of community and good citizenship we should all aspire to.”