DARNESTOWN, Md. — Four individuals and two dogs were safely rescued from the Potomac River on Monday night after getting caught in powerful currents that prevented them from returning to shore.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services responded to a distress call near Pond Island around 10:15 p.m. The group, using recently purchased kayaks, told emergency crews they were unable to make it back due to the river’s strong flow.
Rescue boats were deployed, and all four people and two dogs were safely brought to land. No injuries were reported, and no one required hospital care, according to fire department spokesperson David Pazos.
The river remains swollen and hazardous following heavy rains last week, with additional rainfall expected Wednesday.
To promote water safety, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police reminds paddlers to:
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Wear a life jacket – Accidents happen, and life jackets save lives.
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Understand navigation rules – Paddlers are boaters too and must follow waterway regulations.
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Plan ahead – Proper preparation is key to a safe outing.
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Be aware of cold water risks – Hypothermia can occur in water as warm as 77°F.
For more information, visit the Maryland DNR’s website.
