MOLALLA, OR (KPTV) -
Clackamas Fire's water rescue team helped a family of five on the Molalla River.
Crews responded to reports of that family getting swept down river just before midnight Saturday.
A family member called 911 from about 7.9 miles past Dickey Prairie Road on Molalla Forest Road.
She said her family was swept downstream while fishing, and were now on the opposite side of the river from her. She also said they were unable to cross the river again because it was dark.
Crews later learned that the family crossed the river in shallow water during daylight hours, and were unable to find a shallow way back in the dark.
The family also said that their dog fell into the river and nearly drowned. They had to revive the dog using CPR.
Family members later started a fire with the father's shirt in order to keep warm while they waited for rescuers to arrive.
Rescue crews used an inflatable boat and a line tether to row out the five victims.
All five were mildly hypothermic, but otherwise unhurt, rescuers said.
Clackamas Fire and Swift Water Rescue Consortium would like to remind everyone to dress appropriately for hostile conditions when visiting wilderness recreation sites and to remember that conditions can change very quickly.
Copyright 2012 KPTV (Meredith Corporation.) All rights reserved.
