Seattle, Washington – A man swimming in Lake Union had to be rescued after going underwater and not resurfacing, prompting a swift response from the Seattle Fire Department.
The Seattle Fire Department received a distress call just after 2 p.m. regarding a swimmer in Lake Union near the 1000 block of Valley Street. Three rescue swimmers were deployed to the scene and successfully located the 30-year-old male who had jumped off a pedestrian bridge near the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI).
Upon retrieving the man from the water, emergency crews immediately initiated life-saving measures before transporting him to Harborview Medical Center. The man is currently in critical condition, as confirmed by fire officials.
Kaila Lafferty, spokesperson for the Seattle Fire Department, emphasized the importance of wearing a lifejacket when swimming, especially in cold water like Lake Union where temperatures reached 64 degrees on Sunday afternoon. Lafferty warned that despite it not seeming overly cold, swimming in such conditions can pose significant risks to one’s health.
In light of the incident, officials advise swimmers to only swim in areas where lifeguards are present and to avoid consuming alcohol before entering the water. These precautions can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of individuals enjoying recreational water activities.
The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with swimming in natural bodies of water, underscoring the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent tragic outcomes. Experts continue to stress the significance of water safety awareness and the use of appropriate safety gear to mitigate risks and promote a safe swimming experience.