Thunder Bay Fire Rescue Carries Out Ice Rescue at Local Park

THUNDER BAY – NEWS – Thunder Bay Fire Rescue responded to an ice rescue at a local park on May 1, 2026, after bystanders reported hearing calls for help and seeing a person in icy water. The incident is a reminder that late-season ice in Thunder Bay and across Northwestern Ontario can quickly become unstable and dangerous.

The ice cold water can bring about hypothermia in mere minutes.

Bystanders Called 911 After Person Fell Through Ice

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue says multiple bystanders called 911 after hearing someone calling for help and observing a person submerged in frigid water.

When crews arrived, two pumper apparatus and a command vehicle were deployed. Firefighters confirmed that the person had walked onto the ice before it gave way, causing them to fall into unstable, slushy water.

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue credited the quick actions of members of the public who called 911, saying their vigilance and timely response helped emergency crews reach the scene quickly.

Specialized Ice Rescue Team Reached the Person

Two primary rescuers wearing specialized ice rescue suits entered the water and made their way to the person. They were supported by two additional rescuers who helped secure the patient and bring them safely back to shore.

Paramedics provided medical care at the scene before transporting the person to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Thunder Bay Police Service also attended and assisted.

Fire Rescue Urges Public to Stay Off Ice

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue is reminding residents that ice conditions at this time of year are highly unstable. Warmer temperatures weaken ice, and surfaces that appear solid may not be safe to walk on.

Residents are urged to stay off all ice surfaces during seasonal transitions, especially around parks, shorelines, rivers, creeks and inland lakes where currents, runoff and changing temperatures can make ice unpredictable.

Local Safety Reminder for Northwestern Ontario

For Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario, spring ice can remain visible well after it has become unsafe. Changing daytime temperatures, rain, snowmelt and moving water can weaken ice from above and below.

Anyone who sees a person or animal in distress on the ice should call 911 immediately and avoid going onto the ice themselves. Emergency responders are trained and equipped for cold-water rescue, while unprotected bystanders can quickly become additional victims.