Lake Ray Roberts Rescue: UNT Students Saved from High Winds

(Mix 93-1)  North Texas law enforcement and rescue teams were called into action Saturday afternoon after receiving a call from a group of college students who were stranded on a North Texas lake.

Since the arrival of spring, warmer weather, and the sense of adventure, we're getting out there and doing more. Creating new memories with family and friends. However, the memories created on this North Texas lake Saturday afternoon will also be a life lesson for 10 University of North Texas students.

While out for a day of fun on Lake Ray Roberts a group of friends on paddle boards and in canoes got blown off course ending up calling 9-1-1 for assistance.

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After launching for a day of fun on the lake, the group with two canoes and five paddle boards was quickly overcome by strong winds that blew them off course and toward the center of the lake.

A Texas Game Wardens social media post reports they received the 9-1-1 call from a panicked paddle boarder who was clinging to their board.

A Cooke County Game Warden and paramedics quickly deployed to the area and with the help of other fishermen all 10 people were pulled from the water.

One person was transported to the hospital for hypothermia.

Things to check before getting on the water:

• weather conditions
• life jacket
• way to signal or call for help
• know your limits on the water

Joseph Quintero, Texas Game Warden captain, says,

Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen a concerning rise in paddling-related fatalities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. These unfortunate incidents highlight the importance of being prepared as conditions on the water can change quickly. No matter your experience level, it’s important to not overestimate your abilities and take the proper precautions."

READ MORE --> WARNING DO NOT eat fish from these Dallas area lakes

It is that time of the year to get out there and have some fun, but do it safely and without alcohol. Stay hydrated and stay together as a group as you float a Texas river, paddle, kayak, or canoe and river or lake.

Oh, sunscreen is advised too. Protect your skin!