Zephyr man survives harrowing adventure on Lake Simcoe

[Spiel]

Zephyr man survives harrowing adventure on Lake Simcoe

 

 

Feb 24, 2010 / www.yorkregion.com

 

 

Being well prepared helped save the life of a Zephyr man who was trapped while out ice fishing near Georgina Monday night, York Regional Police said.

 

At about 7 p.m., police got a call from a 69-year-old man who told them he had become lost and disoriented during a heavy winter storm.

 

William Harrison was fishing several miles northwest of Georgina Island when heavy snow began to fall reducing visibility on the lake, police said.

 

Mr. Harrison was trying to make his way back to land on his ATV when he became lost.

He used a cellphone to call for help and remained in an exact location while he waited for police to arrive.

 

With the help of Mr. Harrison’s cellphone service provider, police were able to triangulate his location. He was found about six miles west of Georgina Island and escorted back to shore.

Mr. Harrison was uninjured and made his way home.

 

This incident had a happy ending because Mr. Harrison was prepared, police said.

He carried a fully charged cellphone, was dressed for the weather and followed police direction.

 

If you are going to be outdoors this season, remember to:

• Know the ice conditions of the lake before you leave and take into consideration changing weather conditions that can deteriorate rapidly;
• Carry a cellphone with you and ensure you have a fully charged battery;
• Consider carrying a portable GPS unit;
• Always be prepared for the unexpected;
• If you become lost out on the lake, remain exactly where you are, stay calm and contact police immediately and;
• Always travel with someone and let others know of your location and time expected back to shore

[irishfield]

"Portable GPS unit" !!! How about just carrying a compass like we all should be. Always in my backpack !!