Troopers rescue 68-year-old woman from Au Sable River

The rescue scene on the Au Sable River in Crawford County's South Branch Township.  (Courtesy Photo | Michigan State Police)

CRAWFORD COUNTY, MI - Rescuers from several agencies rescued a 68-year-old woman who became trapped in the Au Sable River while kayaking.

Emergency responders were sent to the Au Sable River in Crawford County's South Branch Township around 1 p.m. on Oct. 25. The woman had had become stranded in the river, having spent more than an hour in cold, waist-deep water struggling with her kayak.

According to the Michigan State Police, another group of kayakers found her and helped her out of the water and onto the riverbank. However, the woman was suffering from exhaustion and hypothermia and was unable to climb the steep bank in that part of the river.

MSP used a collapsible litter kept in a nearby K9 vehicle to retrieve the woman. Troopers and local firefighters then carried the woman up the bank and out of the river bottom. She was then transported to the hospital to receive treatment for hypothermia.

"Those who use the river this time of year should remember that the water is very cold and poses the threat of hypothermia for those exposed to the elements," an MSP news release reads.

"It's a good idea to take to the river with a partner. If no partner is available, let someone know where you're going and when you plan to return. And of course, always wear a personal flotation device."

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