No one was hurt after a vessel capsized in Georgian Bay near Collingwood this morning.
Collingwood Fire and Rescue mobilized its Marine 1 Rescue Unit in response to a boat belonging to an environmental group conducting research, which capsized at about 8:37 a.m. near Nottawasaga Island.
“At the time of the incident, one individual was on board but was able to make it to the island safely, where four other members of the group were stationed,” a release from the Town of Collingwood explains.
The fire & rescue unit was dispatched from the Cranberry Marina and was able to conduct a successful recovery. The victim was assessed by paramedics on land and is in good health, a statement from the town says.
A helicopter from Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Trenton was requested in the event a boat rescue wasn’t possible.
“I’d like to applaud Marine Unit 1 for their swift action in this rescue operation and extend my gratitude to JRCC Trenton for their assistance,” says Collingwood Fire Chief Dan Thurman.
In light of this event, the Fire Chief is reminding boaters of the treacherous and ever-changing conditions on Georgian Bay. Boaters are advised to use an abundance of caution and avoid the water altogether during uncertain conditions.
Chief Thurman adds, “We’re grateful for the positive outcome of this operation and hope that others take warning when heading out on Georgian Bay. Conditions can change in an instant, and the risk can escalate quickly.”