Poudre Fire Authority crews use rope rescue to safely evacuate stranded paddlers at Horsetooth Reservoir
Two kayakers were safely rescued Monday afternoon after strong winds pushed them into the rocks along Soldier Dam at Horsetooth Reservoir, leaving them unable to climb out because of the steep terrain.
Just after 2:30 p.m. on June 29, the Poudre Fire Authority responded with Engine 7 and Rescue 4 after receiving reports that two kayakers had been blown against the rocks near Soldier Dam. Both kayaks became submerged, and the paddlers were stranded along the shoreline.
Upon arrival, firefighters determined that one of the kayakers required a low-angle rope rescue to safely reach the top of the embankment. Rescue crews deployed specialized rope rescue equipment, placing the individual into a Stokes basket before hauling them to safety…