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Kayaker rescues person swimming in the Potomac River

Officials remind everyone that swimming in the Potomac River is illegal and dangerous.

GREAT FALLS, Va. — A person struggling to keep their head above water was rescued from the Potomac River by a kayaker on Tuesday. The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service is using this time to remind everyone that swimming in the Potomac is not only illegal, but extremely dangerous. 

First responders were made aware of a person in distress in the water in the Great Falls area near Sandy Landing just before noon on May 21. Crews were sent out in boats to help the swimmer, but before they arrived, a kayaker was able to pull the swimmer out and bring them to safety near the shoreline of Rocky Island. Rescuers never made contact with the swimmer as they walked away before boats arrived.

Officials are taking this time to remind everyone of the dangers of swimming in the Potomac. In addition, anyone caught doing so could face a fine of up to $200. 

This swimmer in distress call comes exactly a month after a woman was pulled from the Potomac near Georgetown and later died due to her injuries.

There is still no word on how she ended up in the water.

RELATED: Officials rescue 2 kayakers trapped by current at Great Falls

RELATED: Woman dies after being pulled from Potomac River

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