Two Water Rescues in DuPage River

Naperville Fire Department has conducted two water rescues in DuPage River. Naperville’s Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) received a call at 4:05 p.m. on Friday May 15, for the swift water rescue in the DuPage River near Melody. A water response, an Incident Commander and Incident Safety Officer were dispatched by Naperville 911 (PSAP).

At 4:41 p.m., 36 minutes after the call, a second swift water box was initiated for the report of more people in the water in need of rescue near the 500 block of S. Washington St. Engine 7 with swift water technicians arrived on the scene within 5 minutes of the first call. They coordinated with other fire department personnel to assist 2 people out of the river.

As the teams were packing up their equipment, a second water rescue was called in by people near the river as they saw someone go underwater on the river near the 500 block of S. Washington St. The individual was rescued as one member from the Engine 7 got into the river and brought him to safety.

Naperville Police Department and the Lisle-Woodridge Fire Protection District assisted the Naperville Fire Department on the scene. Plainfield Fire Protection District provided the District Station Coverage. All individuals were evaluated on the scene and required no further medical attention. All the firefighters were unharmed at either event.

“As fun as a canoe or kayak trip can appear to be, the facts are that the DuPage River has many obstructions and currents caused by the sudden rise in water levels and underwater objects that are not always visible,” said Naperville Fire Chief Mark Puknaitis. “When water levels rise suddenly due to excessive rainfalls, it is strongly advised to stay clear of the river and observe its beauty from a distance. Don’t take a chance. Put river safety first throughout this spring and summer season in Naperville.”