8 crews work together to rescue man after he falls in Canyon Creek in Granite Falls and hits head

Eight different crews worked together to rescue a man after he fell in Canyon Creek in Granite Falls and hit his head on Saturday, reported Snohomish Regional Fire and Rescue.

Rescue crews said the man was still in the water on the other side of the river from where he fell in.

Then Granite Falls Fire Engine 87 arrived and said the man was out of the water and on some rocks down the canyon.

Medic 81 got there and climbed down a ladder to assess and treat the man. Battalion 81 from the Everett Fire Department and Ladder 62 from the Marysville Fire District were added. Ladder 62 was used to set up a high point while rescue technicians set up a main belay line to lower a stokes basket to Medic 81.

The man was strapped in and raised up from the canyon. The man was then taken to Everett Providence Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

Snohomish County Fire District 22, Snohomish County Fire District 21, and Snohomish County Fire District 19 all assisted with mutual aid. Oso Fire Department assisted with the recovery.

“This high-angle rescue was successful because eight departments and districts collaboratively train regularly and use common tactics and communication,” said SRFR.

SRFR also added advice for those enjoying the water, emphasizing rivers.

“This summer we ask the public to take precautions when enjoying the waterways. Especially rivers! Study the river before you go down them by looking for currents, strainers (log jams and tree stumps), exit points, and river diversions along the route you plan to take. And always wear your life jacket!” said SRFR.