Four canoeists are safe after their boat capsized Aug. 24 on the Yukon River around Five Finger Rapids near Carmacks, the RCMP said today.

At approximately 8:30 p.m. on that date, police were made aware that a canoe had capsized on the river, with one person unaccounted for.

Carmacks RCMP officers immediately engaged with Capital Helicopters, as well as resources from other detachments, to conduct a variety of air and water patrols in the area.

At approximately 11:10 p.m., the searchers learned that the missing canoeist, part of a group visiting the Yukon from overseas, had made their way to shore and was confirmed safe. Police did not specify the person’s gender.

Extra resources were stood down for the night and police followed up with all members of the group the next day to confirm their safety.

Water levels are high throughout the Yukon, and temperatures are once again starting to drop as the summer comes to an end, police noted.

These factors make it even more important for boaters to be safe as they take to the water around the territory.

“Anyone enjoying the Yukon lakes and rivers must take appropriate precautions in advance of their travel,” said Insp. Rob Nason, Yukon RCMP district officer.

“We found out that these travellers were all wearing life jackets or PFDs and clothing appropriate for the weather, and they had a satellite phone available for emergency communication.

“Their preparations contributed to the positive outcome of this occurrence.”

Further information about the travellers will not be released to protect their privacy, police indicated.

This incident is not related to the traveller reported missing on Aug. 16 after his vessel overturned on the Nisutlin River about 200 kilometres from Teslin, police added.

The search continues for Vaclav Jonas, 73, who was visting the Yukon from the Czech Republic.

More information about water safety, including the gear and supplies required for different types of vessels, is available from Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide.