Rescuers Save Ten at Guelph Lake on Canada Day

On Canada Day, ten people were rescued after they got stuck on Guelph Lake.

The Guelph Fire Department’s specialized water rescue team was dispatched to the Guelph Lake Conservation Area after reports came in about two paddleboarders in trouble shortly after 5 p. m.

“After launching the water rescue boat, responders quickly found two individuals in distress – one holding onto a kayak and another stranded in open water on the other side of the island,” the City of Guelph stated in a press release on Thursday.

“During the first rescue operation, responders noticed several more people stuck at different spots around the lake. Crews then safely rescued and brought an additional eight individuals back to the main dock.”

Ontario Provincial Police also joined in to help with searches both on land and water.

Apart from the ten people rescued, police discovered a mother and child who had been briefly reported missing while kayaking. They were located safe on the beach.

“This incident shows exactly what our specialty water rescue personnel train for year-round, from open-water rescues to ice rescue operations,” said Deputy Fire Chief Jonathan Wilker in the city’s press release.

“Our teams are always ready to respond quickly when lives are at risk, and their prompt actions yesterday helped avert a major tragedy.”

Waterloo region, Guelph, and Wellington County faced a thunderstorm warning Wednesday afternoon.

Strong winds picked up and dark clouds swept through the area. The wind was powerful enough to break branches that hit powerlines, homes, and trailers.

The Waterloo Regional Police Service recorded 45 reports of hazardous conditions within an hour on Wednesday afternoon.

Parts of southern Ontario remained without power Thursday.

Safety reminders

The Guelph Fire Department is sharing these safety tips for those planning to take part in water activities so they can stay prepared for sudden storms:

Wear a properly fitted lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at all times. Check weather conditions before and during water activities. Return to shore immediately if severe weather approaches. Ensure appropriate safety equipment is readily available.

Source link