What could have been one of Ontario’s most disastrous outdoors tragedies was averted thanks to a rescue by an OPP-led team of emergency responders near the southern shore of Georgian Bay on March 8.
An ice shelf with 23 anglers on it near Owen Sound broke into several sections, prompting the response — several callers reported the emergency to the OPP’s Grey Bruce Detachment just before noon.
An OPP and Ornge helicopter arrived quickly. By that time, the deteriorating ice sheet had already drifted out approximately two kilometers from shore, leaving some anglers partially submerged in frigid waters. The helicopters soon carried out a rescue operation that prioritized the most at-risk individuals.
By 2:30 pm, crews had airlifted all 23 anglers to nearby Cobble Beach Golf Course, where a team of first responders awaited, OPP stated in a release. Medical treatment was first given by paramedics from Grey and Bruce counties. Some anglers suffered minor injury, including hypothermia. All were expected to make a full recovery, however, police stated.
Assistance was also provided by OPP Marine Units, firefighters from the Inter Township, Owen Sound, Hanover, and North Bruce Peninsula, and Ministry of Natural Resources, Grey-Bruce OPP, and Wellington County OPP.
There was no estimate of the operation’s cost at the time of publication, said Grey Bruce OPP Community Engagement Officer and media liaison Const. Kody Lyons, who added that those rescued would not be charged for the emergency response.
“Emergency services exist to protect the public, and responding to situations like this is part of our mandate,” he said.
Asked about the precautions anglers should take if fishing this late in the season, he said, “Ice conditions can change rapidly, especially during periods of warming temperatures, rain, or wind. We strongly encourage everyone to stay off the ice and open water when conditions are unstable. No ice is ever completely safe, and recent weather has made conditions especially unpredictable. Anyone heading out should take appropriate safety precautions: check ice thickness frequently, avoid going out alone, carry safety equipment, and stay alert to changing conditions.”
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