The King County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit received recognition from the National Water Safety Congress for the second year in a row for efforts, accomplishments and contributions to water safety.

“Our neighboring counties have seen an increase in rescues during our period of decline,” said King County Sheriff spokeswoman Cindi West. “They now are reviewing our work and are participating in developed programs, matching our outreach practices, and joining in our regional awareness campaign.

Good job to the deputies that patrol our waterways and provide water safety education to our citizens.”

The Marine Unit’s work on river safety is robust and positive results have been seen in an 88 percent decrease in rescue dispatched calls for service, and most importantly lives are being saved.