Rescuers from several area police and fire departments worked as a team to rescue a kayaker who had fallen into the Huron River and was clinging to a tree.

The incident occurred around 7 p.m. on June 27 when members of the Huron Township police and fire departments were dispatched to the 22000 block of Bell Road for a kayaker in distress in the river.

The victim was described as holding onto a tree, without a life jacket.

Members of the Huron Township Fire Department responded and rescued the kayaker safely at around 7:40 p.m. using the service’s lifeboat.

Authorities said the initial investigation said the victim had a life jacket in the kayak, but lost it when the boat capsized.

As part of the mutual aid, the Fire Departments of Flat Rock, Gibraltar, Woodhaven and Rockwood assisted ashore in the rescue operation.

Public Safety Director Everette Robbins said the 16-foot lifeboat was put into active service in January, and it was the second successful rescue this season.

“We have trained several of our firefighters to operate the boat so that we can respond quickly in case a rescue effort is required,” said Robbins. “While the river can not seem very intimidating at times, it is important that people on the water wear a personal flotation device at all times. If we’ve learned anything, it’s that these incidents happen quickly and without warning. We are grateful that we were able to bring the victim safely to land. “

Robbins thanked each of the first responders who took part in the effort, putting themselves in danger.

“We also feel extremely fortunate to have a community that supports its public safety service,” Robbins said. “This support allows us to purchase and maintain the tools we need to do the job safely, which in turn saves lives.