Missing Kayakers Located in Kalamazoo River – All Individuals Safe

 The Plainwell Department of Public Safety is pleased to announce that several kayakers reported missing earlier Saturday have been successfully located and removed in the Kalamazoo River. All individuals are safe and accounted for.
 At approximately 7 pm on Saturday, a group of kayakers departed from a launch site near D Avenue and failed to return as expected. A local business owner, observing the delay and unable to reach the individuals by phone, contacted Allegan County Central Dispatch out of concern for their safety.
 At approximately 9:30 pm, the Plainwell Department of Public Safety was dispatched to Fannie Pell Park in response to the report of missing kayakers. Due to the potential route of travel ending as far as Otsego, assistance was requested from the Cooper Township Fire Department and the Allegan County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol.
 Multiple agencies, including Plainwell Department of Public Safety, Cooper Fire Department, and Allegan County Marine Patrol, initiated search operations and deployed watercraft at various points along the river.
 During the search, Allegan County Central Dispatch received a call from a third party who had made contact with one of the kayakers. Dispatch was eventually able to establish direct communication and obtain the group’s GPS location.
 Plainwell officers located the kayakers shortly thereafter, near the Plainwell Public Library. All individuals were safely removed from the water and evaluated by on-scene medical personnel. No injuries were reported.
 The Plainwell Department of Public Safety would like to remind the community to prioritize safety when enjoying water activities on the Kalamazoo River. Please follow these safety guidelines:
•  Always wear a properly fitted life jacket.
•  Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time.
•  Check weather and water conditions before heading out.
•  Paddle with a partner or group when possible.
•  Carry a waterproof communication device in case of emergencies.
 “We are grateful for the swift response of our team of first responders in Plainwell, Allegan County, and Cooper in resolving this incident safely,” said Kevin Callahan, Plainwell Director of Public Safety. “We urge everyone to take precautions to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences on our waterways.”