Every so often we get a call that’s outside the “typical” marine assist — the kind that reminds you how quickly conditions can change and why having experienced help matters.

Recently, C‑Tow coordinated an ice recovery on Sylvan Lake, Alberta, after a 2021 Toyota 4Runner went through the ice. While our day-to-day work is focused on helping boaters on the water, we were more than happy to step in and support this recovery. Situations like this require a careful, coordinated approach with safety as the top priority — for everyone on scene and for the surrounding environment.

Ice conditions can be unpredictable, even when they look solid from shore. Thickness can vary across the same lake due to temperature swings, snow cover, pressure cracks, and changing conditions over time. That’s why incidents like this are a powerful reminder: when it comes to ice, caution is always the right call.

A quick ice safety reminder

• Ice thickness is rarely consistent across an entire lake
• Avoid areas with cracks, pressure ridges, slush, or moving water
• If you’re unsure about conditions, it’s best to stay off the ice

We’re grateful we could assist with this recovery, and we’re proud of the teamwork that goes into responding when the unexpected happens.