Fire departments collaborate on ice rescue at Hillman Marsh

LEAMINGTON — An ice rescue on Sunday evening, February 13, made for some topnotch collaboration between Kingsville Fire and Leamington Fire Services. The departments also received aid from OPP and Essex-Windsor EMS to perform the rescue.

At about 10 pm, a call came in from a pair of snowmobilers who had gone through the ice in Hillman Marsh, quite a distance from shore. Thankfully, they were able to use their phones to call 9-1- 1- and direct emergency services to their location.

First on scene, an OPP officer was able to shine a light on the victims until fire crews and EMS arrived. One snowmobiler was able to get out and walk to shore.

The Leamington Fire Duty Officer activated Mutual Aid protocols with Kingsville Fire and requested their ice rescue team to respond. The U.S. Coast Guard also activated a helicopter to assist with the rescue, but was cancelled once the Kingsville crew was able to reach the remaining person.

Rescue squads get ready to head onto the ice at Hillman Marsh on Sunday, February 13. Photo courtesy of Lreamington Fire Services

Leamington Fire set up a command post and lighting to prepare the scene for Kingsville Rescue to arrive.

The Ice Rescue team set up in a very proficient manner and went out onto the ice and into the water to rescue the snowmobiler.

“Outstanding work by all crews,” said Leamington Fire Chief Andrew Baird. “We would like to thank Leamington OPP, Essex County EMS, Kingsville Fire, JRCC and US Coast Guard for the quick and professional response. We don’t always get to work as a large team, but it is good to know when we need to, everything works seamlessly.”

Both snowmobilers were transported to Erie Shores HealthCare for further evaluation.

According to OPP, one of the rescued drivers was issued a three-day driving suspension after being administered roadside screening.