CATAWBA ISLAND, Ohio (WXYZ) — The United States Coast Guard (USCG) says it rescued nine people from an ice floe on Lake Erie Monday.
At approximately 10:21 a.m. on January 22, USCG crews from Station Marblehead and Air Station Detroit responded following initial report that more than 20 people were stranded on an ice floe nearly a half mile off shore near Catawba Island which is just over five miles south of Put-in-Bay, Ohio.
The USCG confirms crews rescued nine people were rescued with four additional rescued by the Put-in-Bay Fire Department. 20 people in total, USCG says were rescued from the ice floe, with the remaining seven rescuing themselves with their own airboat.
“We are committed to public safety and want to remind everyone the importance of exercising caution around ice formations,” said Lt. Adeeb Ahmad, Sector Detroit Public Affairs Officer. “Ice floes are unpredictable and can quickly become hazardous, particularly in windy conditions or strong currents. Always check local ice conditions before venturing out and be prepared for any emergencies. Your safety is our top priority.”
