Two canoeists stranded by a rapidly spreading wildfire in northwestern Ontario were rescued after a harrowing two-day ordeal.Bruce Hyer, owner of Wabakimi Wilderness lodge, described the situation as life-threatening, with the trapped adventurers using satellite messaging devices to communicate while waiting for help.The incident occurred in Wabakimi Provincial Park, where the canoeists had been paddling for weeks before the fire engulfed their area.Hyer emphasized the extreme danger, noting the canoeists were gasping for breath and faced a high risk of death.

Ontario Provincial Police initially planned a helicopter rescue but later assisted after the outfitter arranged the operation at a cost of $5,000 to $6,000.

The rescue highlights ongoing wildfire challenges in the region, with smoke affecting Toronto's air quality and multiple heat warnings issued by Environment Canada.

Hyer, whose lodge was destroyed in the fires, prioritized the canoers' safety, expressing relief at their survival and joking about compensating them for their troubles.The event underscores the risks of outdoor activities in wildfire-prone areas and the critical role of emergency response.