A couple and their 1-year-old child were rescued by police after the family became lost during a hike in Rouge National Urban Park earlier this month. The incident took place on Saturday, November 8, when the family reportedly became “disoriented” while trekking through dense bushes near a stream within the expansive park.
In response to the emergency, Toronto police dispatched their Air Support Unit to the vicinity of Steeles Avenue East and Reesor Road to locate the lost family. Officers utilized a geolocation app named “What3Words” to assist in narrowing down the search area, which covers over 79 square kilometers. This technology helped streamline the operation, ensuring a more efficient rescue effort.
Remarkably, the family was found quickly amidst the thick vegetation, with no injuries reported. The police emphasized that the situation was handled with urgency and care, especially considering the presence of a small child. In a news release on November 14, authorities mentioned that the Air Support officers initially attempted to guide the family out through verbal directions. However, due to the rugged terrain, these instructions were deemed unsafe for them to follow while navigating alone.
Faced with these circumstances, the officers further involved tactical crews who were operating a police helicopter. These tactical units used live aerial feeds and precise digital coordinates to assist in the rescue operation. This advanced coordination was critical in reaching the family and ensuring their safe exit from the wilderness without any further complications.
As a part of the community outreach, authorities have also released a three-minute and 55-second video documenting the family’s rescue. This footage showcases the efforts made by the police and may serve as a reminder of the importance of safety during outdoor activities, particularly when children are involved.
No additional details regarding the incident have been disclosed, but the successful rescue highlights the collaboration between various police units and the effective use of technology in emergency situations.
This incident serves as a reminder for hikers to remain vigilant and adequately prepared, especially in unfamiliar terrains, to avoid similar situations in the future.
