On Saturday, April 11th, 2026, at 10:05 AM, the Stamford Fire Department was dispatched to Cove Island for a report of 2 kayakers in distress.  The kayakers were approximately 1,000 feet from shore when one of the kayaks overturned due to wind gusts and choppy waters.  Due to the conditions, the kayaker could not get back into his kayak and remained in the frigid waters.  Concerned citizens noticed the two struggling and called 911.  The Stamford 911 Center launched the central drone out to the vicinity of Cove Island.  The drone was able to locate the kayakers on the water before emergency crews arrived.  Stamford Fire deployed Fire Boat 214 from the Cove Island boat launch and made their way out to the kayakers.  Stamford EMS and Stamford Police also responded to the scene to assist.  Stamford Fire Boat 236 from Stamford Harbor was also enroute.  FB214 crew members were able to make a quick grab of the kayaker in the water and bring him aboard FB214.  The second kayaker was secured with a tow line.  Both were quickly evaluated onboard and brought back to the boat launch.  The kayakers were assessed further by Stamford EMS for signs of hypothermia and sent to Stamford Hospital for a medical evaluation.

The Stamford Fire Department would like to remind recreational boaters and kayakers to look ahead at weather conditions on Long Island Sound prior to going out on the water.  Conditions inland can be drastically different out on the water.  Today’s Long Island Sound conditions called for a small craft advisory, wind gusts of 25-30 mph and the water temperature at 43 degrees.

Stay safe