Tiverton, R.I. — July 18 — Tiverton and Portsmouth firefighters responded to the Sakonnet River following a report of an overturned vessel with several people in the water.

Firefighters and rescue crews successfully removed three people from the river and brought them ashore for evaluation by emergency medical personnel. All three were wearing life jackets, which officials credited with helping prevent more serious injuries.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and the Little Compton and Middletown fire departments also assisted with the response. The rescue highlighted the importance of personal flotation devices while boating and the role of regional mutual aid during emergencies on the water.