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Calgary firefighters rescue Bow River rafter

June 2, 2015, Calgary - What was supposed to be a pleasant raft ride down the Bow River in Calgary turned into a nightmare when the craft capsized, tossing its six occupants into the fast-flowing water.

Emergency officials say all six had life-jackets on when the raft flipped after striking a bridge abutment early Sunday evening.

Five made it to shore but the sixth passenger – a woman in her 20s – clung to the craft after it became pinned against the bridge.

She was calling for help when firefighters lowered a rope to prevent her from slipping away before an aquatic rescue team rappelled down to hold her until a boat arrived.

The woman was conscious and alert when she was brought to shore and taken to hospital.

Prior to the rescue, authorities had to call off would-be civilian rescuers for fear they might fall into the river.

June 2, 2015 
By The Canadian Press