FITZROY HARBOUR – A pontoon collided with the Quyon Ferry early this evening (Aug. 5) injuring two and sending one to hospital with serious injuries.

Members of the Ottawa Fire Service’s (OFS) water rescue unit situated at Station 62 in Fitzroy Harbour responded to the call after multiple 911 calls were received.

“At 5:03 p.m. Ottawa Fire Services received multiple 911 calls reporting that the Ferry at Quyon Harbor had collided with a Pontoon boat,” the OFS released in a statement today. “The pontoon boat had three occupants on board, two adults and a child with their dog. One adult sustained serious injuries, and a second received minor injuries.”

Both adults were safely removed from the pontoon boat and brought to the Ontario shoreline by OFS and were transported to hospital by the Ottawa Paramedic Services. No injuries were sustained to people on the ferry. Municipalité régionale de comté des Collines fire and police from Pontiac County were also dispatched to the scene to assist.

The OFS hopes all individuals will remember to put safety first when on the water.

“If safe to do so, remain on scene after calling 9-1-1,” the OFS said. “First responders will be able to locate the incident much more rapidly. Always wear a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) and ensure it fits snug and securely. Please ensure you monitor the activity of your children and pets near waterways. Ensure you are equipped with a safety kit when heading out on water and/or outdoor adventures.”

The Quyon Ferry crosses the Ottawa River between Fitzroy Harbour and Quyon roughly every 10 minutes during its scheduled work day.