Emergency Preparation
Emergency Preparation on the Water
Medical, boating, and fire emergencies happen every year in the Thousand Islands. Fortunately, there are emergency rescue fire boats on both sides of the river that can bring medical and firefighting personnel to the location of these emergencies. Boaters in distress can also call the Coast Guard via VHF radio CH16 (or by cell phone at *16 or #16, if available on your phone; or (800) 267-7270 in Canada; (866) 842-1560 in the United States).
For less urgent situations when just a tow is needed, C-Tow can be contacted in Canada and BoatUS in the United States. Both towing services have smart phone apps and various options for annual memberships.
Fire prevention and preparation: The best way to deal with the prospect of fires is to take measures to prevent them and be prepared to fight them if they break out. Here are links to two first-hand accounts of how islanders dealt with a recent major cottage fire, along with their tips about how to be prepared in the event that one occurs: “Fire Next Door – 200 miles away” go to page 5; 500 Seconds. Other tips for fire prevention can be found on the TLTI website (click especially the Cottage Safety tab) and on this ‘Fire Smart Your Home’ Website and Interactive Guide from BC.
911 Calls: An initiative undertaken by the TIA in 2024 provides islanders with fridge magnets upon which they can write the specific information that needs to be relayed during 911 calls so rescue boats can get to their dock without unnecessary delays. It is imperative that the 911 call begin by specifying that a marine emergency is being reported. This information triggers local protocols for rescue boats. Details regarding these fridge magnets and other aspects of medical emergency services can be found with this link.
