Five travellers reported overdue Monday night have been located safe thanks to a joint effort between the Yellowknife RCMP and other local agencies.
The group of two men, one woman and two youths were located on Tuesday in the Terry Lake area after departing from Yellowknife on the morning of June 29, en route to Tibbitt Lake.
They were expected to be back in Yellowknife on Monday, prompting a concerned family member to contact the authorities. A search and rescue operation was then launched by Yellowknife RCMP, with the help of Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA) and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, resulting in the five travellers being located.
The group was travelling with two canoes and were prepared for the outdoors, states the news release.
But adverse weather forced them to extend their stay, say RCMP.
“We are thankful to our partners and the fact that we have found them in good spirits and uninjured” stated Staff Sergeant Yannick Hamel, of the Yellowknife RCMP.
“Public safety is the RCMP’s top priority. Please ensure you let your friends and family know when you are planning to head out on the water and bring along a communication device. The recent weather conditions once again demonstrated how plans can change unexpectedly. Please ensure you are well prepared for adverse weather or mechanical issues," added Hamel.
RCMP are now reminding people travelling on water or land to:
- Carry a satellite phone, marine radio, emergency communications device or other means of communication.
- Inform someone of your travel plans, where you are going, and when you plan to return.
- Carry emergency supplies and learn survival skills.
- Be familiar with the operation of your vessel and ensure it is in proper working condition prior to heading out on the water.
- Check the marine forecast before heading out and monitor the weather for changes.