Overdue travellers found safe in Terry Lake area

A group of five travellers who were overdue were located on July 2 in the Terry Lake area and are safe.

On July 1st, at approximately 11:45 PM, Yellowknife RCMP received a report of overdue campers / canoe travellers that were believed to be in the area of Tibbitt Lake. They were expected to be back in Yellowknife that evening, and a concerned family member reported them overdue.

The group of five, two adult males, one adult female and two youths, left for Tibbitt Lake in the morning of June 29, 2019. The group was using two canoes to travel on the lake and were prepared for the outdoor.

They extended their stay due to weather.

Thanks to Yellowknife RCMP, with the assistance of Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA) and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the group was located on July 2 after a search and rescue operation was launched.

"We are thankful to our partners and the fact that we have found them in good spirits and uninjured" states Staff Sergeant Yannick Hamel, Yellowknife RCMP Operations Manager.

"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" adds Staff Sergeant Yannick Hamel.

RCMP remind 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