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Coast Guard ship changes course to avoid person on Midland Bay

CCGS Samuel Risley clearing path for departure of CSL Frontenac from Midland Harbour
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Reader says Coast Guard ship had to make a reverse maneuver to change its course in Midland Bay Monday morning.

Despite multiple warnings from local OPP and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, not everyone appears to have received the message about ongoing icebreaking activities in Midland Bay.

Reader Linda Wilson sent in the accompanying photo that seems to show someone standing beside an ice hut this morning as the icebreaker tries to "do its job breaking up ther ice."

Wilson said the ship had to stop and make a reverse maneuver to avoid causing the ice where the person was standing from becoming unstable.

Just last week, a release noted the "Canadian Coast Guard advises residents in Midland, Ont., that the CCGS Samuel Risley will carry out icebreaking operations in the area March 17 and 18, 2023.

"The purpose of this operation is to prepare for the departure of CSL Frontenac from Midland Harbour on March 18, 2023. Breaking up the ice will allow for the safe and efficient movement of this vessel."

The Coast Guard goes on to remind the public that it can be very dangerous to venture onto the ice and suggest that they familiarize themselves with our ice safety tips.

"The ice may move, creating a real danger for anyone on it. Additionally, plan activities carefully and use extreme caution after operations are complete as the ice will remain unstable even once the icebreaker has left the area."

Further information on the Canadian/U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking partnership can be viewed here.


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Andrew Philips

About the Author: Andrew Philips

Editor Andrew Philips is a multiple award-winning journalist whose writing has appeared in some of the country’s most respected news outlets. Originally from Midland, Philips returned to the area from Québec City a decade ago.
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