Two men rescued after snowmobile goes through ice off Massassauga Point

Rick Nelson captured this photograph of two people on West Lake, just off Sheba’s Island. Ice thicknesses have remained sketchy for most of this mild winter for Prince Edward County. – Rick Nelson file photo

Two men in their late 20s were rescued after their snowmobile broke through the ice off Massassauga Point Thursday afternoon.

A resident in the area called 911 after hearing cries for help,” said Kim Guthrie, Prince Edward OPP constable. “The caller scanned the ice and observed two people in crisis.”

Just before 2 p.m. Feb. 6, members of the OPP met with paramedics and Prince Edward County Fire Rescue were dispatched.

Guthrie said the Fire Rescue team conducted an ice rescue and both parties were assessed on shore, then transported to Belleville General Hospital where they were treated for non life threatening injuries.

The two males were visiting the area from Newmarket and were operating their snowmobile on the ice just prior to breaking through.

“The Ontario Provincial Police would like to remind everyone that ice conditions are ever-changing, and to exercise extreme caution when venturing out onto the ice, whether on foot, snow machine or any other vehicle.”

Guthrie recommends people venturing out should wear bright-coloured, buoyant clothing such as a floater suit, as a good practice for anyone enjoying ice activities at any time of the winter.