As we head deeper into the winter season, the OPP is reminding area residents to be careful on the ice.
Constable Kevin Martin of the South Bruce OPP says with snowmobilers and ice fishing enthusiasts out enjoying their hobbies – now is the time to talk about safety.
Martin says with unpredictable weather comes unpredictable ice conditions, adding you can never be certain if the ice is safe to be on.
Martin says it’s important to note that ice does not freeze at a uniform thickness, meaning the ice could be stable in one spot, but can be considerably thinner ten paces away.
You can also tell ice thickness based on the colour of the ice, clear blue is the strongest, white or opaque ice is much weaker, and ice with a honeycomb look should be avoided altogether.
Martin says you should also be aware that snow covered ice is especially dangerous as the snow can insulate the ice causing it to freeze slower.
The OPP is stressing that children not be allowed near frozen bodies of water, no matter the size, as it only takes a small amount of water for a child to get into trouble.
Constable Martin adds if you are heading out on the ice, make sure you tell someone where you’re going, and what supplies you’re bringing with you.
For more information on ice safety – you can visit www.lifesaving.ca
