Just before 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024, West Kelowna Fire Rescue was called to the 4000 block of Collens Hill Road to an access point for Kalamoir Regional Park for two people and their dog who had broken through the ice approximately 100 meters from shore.
While enroute to the incident bystanders who witnessed the incident jumped into action and assisted with the extrication of the patients from the water. Upon arrival, WKFR crews assisted the patients into the cab of their apparatus to help warm them from their exposure to the elements prior to transferring them to BCAS.
WKFR is grateful for the fast actions of the bystanders, no doubt increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
WKFR would like to remind all locals and visitors alike to:
– Ensure their dogs and other pets are on a leash when around frozen bodies of water. Shoreline ice is weak and can, as in this case, result in accidents if your pet is exploring
– If you are planning on ice fishing, follow posted signage and know ahead of time what the safe thickness is for the activity prior to venturing onto the ice
– Let someone know your plan if you are going onto the ice and always wear a personal floatation device (PFD)
– If you witness someone falling through the ice, call 911 immediately, stay on solid ground, and continue to watch the person until trained and equipped personnel arrive to conduct the rescue.
WKFR would like to thank the bystanders, BC Ambulance and RCMP for their assistance in this successful rescue