KANATA – Ottawa firefighters rescued a sailor from a turtled sailboat this afternoon (Aug. 3).

“Ottawa fire dispatch received a call from a concerned citizen who reported an overturned sailboat in the Ottawa River near Shirley’s Bay,” Ottawa Fire Service (OFS) public information officer Connor Tharris released in a statement.

“Upon arrival, firefighters found the owner sitting on the top of the overturned boat, not in any medical distress.”

OFS water rescue crews from Station 42 in Kanata put their training to use.

“Firefighters assisted the owner to right the boat, and assisted him in getting back to shore,” Tharris said.

“There are no reported injuries at this time. We would like to thank the following agencies who collaborated with us to manage this incident: the Ottawa Paramedic Service and the Ottawa Police Service. Our work together is based on trust, cooperation and a group commitment to service excellence and safety.”

Tharris had some advice for anyone who arrives on the scene of an emergency.

“If safe to do so, remain on scene after calling 911,” he said. “First responders will be able to locate the incident much more rapidly. Ensure you are equipped with a safety kit when heading out on water and/or outdoor adventures.”