Rivers in Lane County are still cold, swift, and full of obstructions. ALWAYS wear your life jacket, carry a whistle, use watercraft meant for rivers, and – just like any travel in Lane County – be prepared to stay out overnight. At least one incident in Lane County this weekend almost had a very tragic outcome due to life jackets not being worn. The other two incidents could have had tragic outcomes, if not for the boaters wearing life jackets.  On August 3rd at about 3 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol deputies responded to a report of two flipped kayakers on the Willamette River, downstream from Hileman Landing. Both were able to get to shore due to their life jackets, however one of them was trapped by the river, dense vegetation, and downed trees. Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue responded to assist with additional equipment. About an hour and a half after the initial call, both subjects were rescued.  At about noon on the same day, Marine Patrol deputies responded to a report of an overturned boat just below the EWEB Goodpasture Boat Landing on the McKenzie River. Two people were clinging to the boat, and neither were wearing lifejackets. Due to the extended response time of deputies from the valley, McKenzie Fire & Rescue responded and rescued both subjects.  Later that evening at about 9:30 p.m., Marine Patrol deputies responded to rescue two people stranded on an island in the Willamette River after their inner tube popped downstream from Clearwater Landing. The subjects were wearing life jackets, and were not in distress. Due to the extreme danger of navigating the river in the dark, they agreed to be rescued in the morning. Marine Patrol deputies responded at first light and brought the subjects to shore.