Home / Disasters and Accidents / Life Jacket Plea After Fatal Kayak Sinking
Life Jacket Plea After Fatal Kayak Sinking
23 Jul
Summary
- A 60-year-old kayaker died after his boat sank near Dash Point Park.
- Bystanders and a paddleboarder attempted a rescue, but CPR efforts failed.
- Officials emphasize the importance of life jackets following the preventable tragedy.
A kayaker tragically lost his life near Dash Point Park this week after his vessel began sinking about 100 yards offshore. Witnesses heard the 60-year-old man screaming for help around 7 a.m. Tuesday as he clung to his sinking boat.
A paddleboarder was able to bring the man to shore while others called emergency services. Firefighters performed CPR upon arrival, but the kayaker was pronounced dead. The cause of the kayak's sinking remains unclear.
Authorities are emphasizing the critical importance of life jackets, noting the victim was not wearing one. A similar recent drowning at Alder Lake also involved an individual without a life jacket. Water safety advocates stress that such deaths are preventable with simple measures like wearing life vests and informing others of water plans.
Washington law requires children 12 and under to wear life jackets on watercraft under 19 feet. While adults must have one on board, experts recommend wearing it at all times, comparing it to a safety belt, as a vital tool for saving lives.
