DEM encourages boaters to wear life jackets after overturned kayak incident

WARREN, R.I. (WLNE)- The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is encouraging anyone that is boating to wear life vests after a kayak overturned in the Warren River earlier this week.

The DEM says that on Wednesday, an Environmental Patrol Officer saw an overturned kayak pushed up against a bridge that spans across the Warren River.

The officer checked the area and found two women clinging to the bridge supports, not wearing life vests.

Both women were rescued using a throw bag. The Warren Fire Chief, along with several bystanders assisted with the rescue.

The two women were treated for minor injuries at the scene.

“No matter what activity you have planned on the water, always remember to wear a life jacket every time you are on the water,” the DEM’s statement read.

84% of reported drownings happen when the victim isn’t wearing a life jacket, according to the statement.