Girls Tubing In Only Bathing Suits Rescued From Gore Creek In Vail

VAIL, Colo. (CBS4) - Four girls who were tubing had to be rescued from Gore Creek in Vail on Monday afternoon.

According to Lt. Ryan Sutter with Vail Fire and Emergency Services, the four girls were wearing only bathing suits and weren't prepared for the swift water.

A witness called authorities to report seeing two girls emerge from the water. They had been dumped from their inner tubes into the swift water. According to Sutter, the girls told authorities two other girls they were with were unaccounted for in the creek. The two other girls were able to get out of the water after getting caught up in some debris in the water upstream.

All four girls were treated at the scene for minor scratches and bruises.

Sutter issued a reminder about the dangers associated with swift water.

"If you're inexperienced, go with a professional. The best way to enjoy the water is with an established, local guiding outfit," he said.

He was said having appropriate safety gear is essential.

"Don't enter the water without a personal flotation device (life jacket), helmet and appropriate cold-water protection, i.e. wet suit or dry suit," Sutter said. "Keep an eye on children and dogs, ensuring they are a safe distance from swift moving currents and related debris. Prevention is the most effective form of rescue."