Firefighters Respond to Ice Emergency Involving Youth in Weller’s Bay

Emergency crews were called to Weller’s Bay on Thursday around midday after reports that a 15-year-old was stranded on cracking ice near Blakely Road.

According to Prince Edward County Fire & Rescue, the caller reported that the youth had not fallen through the ice, but the ice in the area was breaking apart and unsafe. Firefighters from two stations were dispatched to the scene to assist.

Fire officials are reminding residents to remain vigilant as winter conditions fluctuate, noting that ice strength can change rapidly and may not be easily judged by appearance alone.

The fire department emphasized several ice safety reminders for anyone considering venturing onto frozen waterways:

• Ice should be at least four inches thick for walking or skating

• Ice thickness and quality can vary, even within the same area

• Avoid weak zones, especially near moving water or vegetation

• Wear safety equipment such as a life jacket or ice picks

• Never go out alone and always tell someone your plans

• If conditions seem uncertain, stay off the ice

Officials stress that no activity on ice is worth the risk if safety cannot be assured.

UPDATE: The youth was successfully rescued, placed in the care of PEC Fire & Rescue, and transported toward shore. Officials say the individual may have been suffering from hypothermia and was turned over to EMS for medical assessment.