No ice is safe ice and the York Regional Police (YRP) Marine Unit is reminding residents to stay safe while on Lake Simcoe.
Police have responded to three separate incidents on the ice in the last two weeks.
On January 26, 2024, the unit was called after a snowmobiler had fallen through the ice near Duclos Point, in Georgina.
"An ice fisher advised he was looking for a spot to fish when his snowmobile fell through
the ice. He managed to pull himself out and call a friend for help. As the pair headed back to the shore on a second snowmobile, it also fell through the ice and the Marine Unit was called. Both males suffered minor injuries," according to a YRP news release on Monday.
On January 31, a male went through the ice while riding on an ATV near Thorah Island. The marine unit was able to rescue him and he was treated for minor injuries.
Then three days later, another ATV with two males on it went through the ice at Duclos Point. Both were rescued, according to police, but one of the males later suffered a medical emergency and was pronounced dead.
"The thickness of the ice on Lake Simcoe can vary based on currents below the surface and temperatures
above. Uneven cracks can quickly form, resulting in hazardous obstacles for snowmobilers. Check with your local ice hut operators for information in the latest ice conditions," the news release stated.
Following these safety tips can help keep you safe:
- Know the condition of the ice before you go out and remember that changes in the weather can rapidly
alter conditions on lakes and streams - Wear proper clothing and floatation attire
- Never venture out onto the lake alone
- Ensure you have a cell phone with a fully charged battery in the event of an emergency
- Tell someone where you are going, with whom and what time you will return
