MONTREAL, Quebec - The Canadian Coast Guard in partnership with the United States Coast Guard and the Ontario Provincial Police, is advising residents and visitors that annual spring icebreaking operations will begin on or around March 17, 2014, in Thunder Bay, on Lake Superior.
- The United States Coast Guard Cutter Alder will assist with harbour breakout in Thunder Bay, in anticipation of the opening of the SOO Locks on St. Mary’s River, scheduled for the March 25, 2014.
The Canadian Coast Guard strongly recommends that fishermen and snowmobilers and other recreational users leave the ice immediately if they see an icebreaker in the vicinity. The ice may move or break apart even at a significant distance, creating a hazard for anyone in the area of an icebreaker. All personal property, temporary structures and recreational equipment, should also be moved to shore well before these dates.
Dates and routes are subject to change with little or no notice due to operational requirements or sudden and significant changes to weather and ice conditions.
Public service announcements made prior to impending icebreaker and shipping activity are issued for the safety of all ice surface users, who can expect disrupted and unstable ice conditions related to icebreaking and shipping operations.
Rachelle Smith
Communications Manager
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Canadian Coast Guard
Central and Arctic Region
Rachelle.Smith@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
(204) 983-4197
