The Drumheller Fire Department rescued two people from the Red Deer River after their snow machine fell through the ice.
The Department responded with RCMP and EMS to a call from a passerby at about 4:15 Sunday afternoon, March 3. Firefighters wore dry suits to protect themselves from the frigid temperatures as they rescued a male and female from the water downstream from Gordon Taylor Bridge. The crew also freed the snow machine. The occupants were wet and received treatment from EMS.
Fire Chief Bruce Wade reminds those using the river to be cognizant of the conditions.
“River water flowing can be very dangerous as you never know how thick the ice is compared to standing water like lakes and sloughs,” he said. “We are warning everyone to be very aware of ice conditions before attempting crossing or driving on ice as this type of call could turn into a very serious call, and life hazard not only for victims but also first responders.”
