Exclusive – Dramatic Ice Water Rescue In Port Hope
Port Hope resident Keith Davis was in the right place at the right time to hear the cries of an angler calling for help after falling into Lake Ontario on March 7, 2019 in Port Hope.
Davis was filling his water truck up near the mouth of the Ganaraska River south of Cameco in Port Hope at approximately 5:30 p.m.
“I heard a scream and I looked over and saw a man screaming for help in the water.”
Davis immediately called 9-1-1 as the man was in the water partially submerged. It appeared he was partially standing on a boulder in the water and a knife was jabbed into the ice to help the main maintain his balance.
“I couldn’t believe it and I couldn’t do anything for him. I had nothing to rescue him with.”
The west pier is a popular spot for anglers in the warmer weather and even some venture out onto the pier in the winter time.
“Personally I wouldn’t go out on it.”
“It’s crazy. It’s not worth your life.”
“Fishing is a sport, but it’s not worth risking your life in ice cold water.”
It’s estimated the angler was in the water for at least 15 minutes.
“He’s lucky I was here to call 9-1-1 because if I wasn’t here, he might not be here today.”
Members of the Port Hope Fire Department arrived quickly and donning ice water immersion suits swam out to rescue the fisherman.
It’s believed the man was walking on top of the ice wall, fell down and tumbled into the water head first.
There is a sign by the pier that warns people of the dangers of walking on it.
An OPP helicopter was also in scene in case they were needed.
Officials say because of the size of the ice wall, it would have been impossible for the man to get out on his own.
The North York man was taken to hospital by Northumberland County Paramedics.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love