Crews from the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service rescue a dog that fell through thin ice at the Kilcona Off-Leash Dog Park on Tuesday, November 5, 2019. (CITY OF WINNIPEG)
WINNIPEG — First responders rescued a dog from chilly water after it fell through thin ice at a local park on Tuesday.
The dog was in the Kilcona Off-Leash Dog Park just before 7:30 a.m. when it fell through the ice. Rescuers located the pooch about 18 metres from shore and used an inflatable water rescue boat to reach it.
The dog was pulled into the boat and reunited with its relieved owner on shore. The animal appeared to be in good health, despite being in the water for approximately 20 minutes.
The incident is a reminder to use caution around waterways this time of year.
“No one should risk being on the ice at this time of the year,” said Assistant Chief Mark Reshaur, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service.
“The ice thickness is unpredictable on all waterways and ponds so we encourage all residents to steer clear of these surfaces, as well as the banks surrounding them.”
Officials say parents and teachers should speak to children and students about the dangers around waterways, including drainage ditches, culverts, streams, creeks, retention ponds, and rivers.
The WFPS responds to an average of 200 water and ice safety calls each year.
