Gimli RCMP, coast guard rescue missing Lake Winnipeg canoeists

A pair of strandedcanoeist were saved by RCMP and Canadian Coast Guard officials Sunday in Grindstone Provincial Park.

The19-year-oldand 22-year-old canoeistsset out on the waters atGrindstone Provincial Parkat12:30 p.m.

Once on the water, windy conditions andchunks of floating ice on Lake Winnipeg blocked the pair from getting back toshore.

RCMP were called to investigate around 4:30 p.m. when the men were reported missing, enlisting the help of the Canadian Coast Guard.

The canoeists were missing for abouttwohours when the coast guard arrived,manoeuvringthrough the ice and rescuingthe two men.

Cam Hurst with Manitoba Conservation said boaters should take a look at where the ice is before heading out.

"People have to make that informed decision, said Hurst."I mean, I don't know how much ice was there when they were out there, but you know you have to take precautions."

Themenwere not injured.