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Provincial police say 23 people were rescued after a piece of ice they were standing on separated from shore in Georgian Bay.
In a post to social media, Ontario Provincial Police said officers responded to reports of several people stranded on ice near Balmy Beach, north of Owen Sound, Ont., shortly after 1 p.m.
In an update to social media, the OPP said the winds and current moved the ice shelf approximately two kilometres away from shore.
“This became a life-threatening situation for several of the people due to hypothermia,” provincial police said. “All are expected to make a full recovery.”
The OPP said its officers and aviation team, alongside several emergency partners, were able to execute the rescue mission. Two helicopters picked up and transported all 23 people to safety, provincial police added.
“Great teamwork and a quick response by all involved,” the OPP said.
The public was asked to stay off the ice and avoid the area while emergency crews responded.
