RAPID CITY, South Dakota – A successful mutual aid operation involving the Rapid City Fire Department (RCFD) Water Rescue Team and the Johnson Siding Fire Department (JSFD) resulted in the recovery of a swamped vessel from Sheridan Lake on Tuesday, Oct. 7. The swift action was taken to eliminate a public hazard and minimize environmental impact in the Black Hills.
The incident began late last week when an angler was caught in rough water during a rapidly developing storm. The boat was overwhelmed by waves, and the owner attempted to beach it near the dam. The vessel ultimately capsized, though the owner was fortunate to secure a ride back to the marina with other recreationalists, with no injuries reported.
Fast forward to today, when the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) requested assistance from the Rapid City Fire Department to recover the boat. The RCFD Water Rescue Team contacted the JSFD to utilize their specialized resource, Fireboat #1, for the operation.
The recovery team launched at 3:30 p.m. By 5:00 p.m., the boat was brought upright. The process involved first using an airbag to refloat the vessel and then using Fireboat #1’s pump to remove enough water for a safe tow back to the boat ramp.
By 5:30 p.m., the boat owner had loaded his vessel onto a trailer, and all departments had demobilized their equipment. An After Action Review was completed, and all units cleared the scene at 5:45 p.m.
The boat owner, who observed the entire operation, repeatedly thanked the responding crews, expressing great admiration for the efficiency and professionalism demonstrated by all hands.
