Ten people rescued at Guelph Lake

GUELPH/ERAMOSA – The Guelph Fire Department’s water rescue team retrieved 10 people from Guelph Lake on July 1 after a sudden and severe storm.

Heavy winds, lightning and rain "created dangerous conditions on the water," fire officials said of the late-afternoon storm on Canada Day.

At 5:09pm, the department responded to two paddleboarders in distress at Guelph Lake Conservation Area.

"After the water rescue boat launched, responders quickly located two individuals in distress – one clinging to a kayak and another stranded in open water on the opposite side of the island," stated a July 2 press release from the fire department.

"During the initial rescue operation, responders spotted several additional people stranded at multiple locations around the lake.

"Crews then safely rescued and transported an additional eight individuals to the main dock."

Multiple ambulances responded but "no injuries were reported and no one required [transportation] to the hospital," officials stated.

Water safety reminders

The Guelph Fire Department is reminding everyone to "prioritize safety when participating in water activities."

It offers the following tips to "reduce the risk of injury or death during emergencies on the water":

• wear a properly fitted lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at all times;
• check weather conditions before and during water activities;
• return to shore immediately if severe weather approaches; and
• ensure appropriate safety equipment is readily available.