Emergency crews rescued a person after a snowmobile broke through the ice on the Rideau River near Burritts Rapids Monday evening.
First responders were called to the area around 6 p.m. after the individual’s partner reported they were unable to get out of the water. Ontario Provincial Police arrived first, followed by Ottawa fire services, paramedics, and Leeds Grenville emergency crews.
The person was clinging to the snowmobile and struggling to stay above the water. Fire officials said the individual was wearing a flotation suit but was experiencing leg numbness due to the cold. Using GPS coordinates provided by dispatch, ice and water rescue teams located the person about 30 feet from shore, holding onto an ice shelf.
A throw rope was provided, but the individual lacked the strength to pull themselves to safety. Firefighters entered the water, secured the person, and used additional resources, including a rescue sled, to bring them to shore. The rescue was completed within minutes.
The individual was assessed by paramedics, treated for hypothermia, and later released. Police warned that fluctuating winter conditions can make ice unpredictable and urged the public to avoid travelling on frozen waterways.