Kayaker in Trouble at Remic Rapids
Ottawa emergency responders were called into action Sunday afternoon after a kayaker got into serious difficulty at Remic Rapids, one of the city's most well-known — and most challenging — stretches of whitewater.
Ottawa Fire Services received a 911 call at 3:07 p.m. with initial reports confirming the kayaker was in the water at Remic Rapids, located along the Ottawa River near Westboro Beach. Crews responded quickly and the paddler was successfully pulled from the water.
The kayaker was transported to hospital in serious condition. No further details about the individual's identity or current status were immediately available.
Remic Rapids: A Popular but Dangerous Spot
Remic Rapids is a beloved destination for Ottawa's outdoor community — a go-to for kayakers, canoeists, and whitewater enthusiasts, especially as spring conditions arrive and water levels rise. The area draws everyone from seasoned paddlers to curious onlookers who gather along the shoreline to watch.
But those same conditions that make the rapids exciting can also make them treacherous. Spring runoff significantly increases water volume and current speed, and even experienced paddlers can find themselves overwhelmed quickly.
Ottawa's waterways see a spike in activity every spring, and unfortunately, rescue calls tend to follow. Ottawa Fire Services, along with Ottawa Paramedics and Ottawa Police, regularly respond to water-related emergencies along the Ottawa River corridor during the warmer months.
A Reminder About Water Safety
This incident is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in whitewater paddling, particularly during spring when rivers are running high and cold. Water temperatures in the Ottawa River this time of year remain dangerously low — cold water shock can incapacitate even strong swimmers within minutes.
If you're planning to paddle Ottawa's rivers this season, safety officials recommend:
- Always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD)
- Never paddle alone, especially in whitewater
- Check water levels and conditions before heading out
- Know your skill level — Remic Rapids is not a beginner spot
- Let someone know your plans and expected return time
The Ottawa River Canoe Club and other local paddling organizations offer skills clinics and guided introductions to whitewater for those looking to get into the sport safely.
Emergency Services Respond Regularly to the Ottawa River
Ottawa Fire Services' Dive and Swift Water Rescue team is specifically trained for exactly these situations. The team operates year-round and responds to incidents across the Ottawa River and its tributaries, coordinating with paramedics and police to ensure fast, effective rescues.
The investigation into the circumstances of Sunday's rescue is ongoing. No further details have been released by emergency services at this time.
Wishing the kayaker a full and speedy recovery.
Source: Ottawa Citizen
