Chicago Fire Department divers were called to the river's North Branch near 1 p.m. on Sunday after the watercrafts capsized. Officials helped 62 people, including many children, get out of the water. No serious injuries were reported.
Police cited Wateriders Kayak Tours and Kayak Chicago for violating restrictions on operating during hazardous conditions. Efforts late Sunday to reach representatives of the companies were not successful.
Authorities said the incident could have turned tragic.
"Personal flotation devices saved their lives," said Deputy District Chief Ron Dorneker.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved.
