The Nanton RCMP are urging people to use caution around frozen lakes and other frozen bodies of water.
On Sunday (March 9), they responded to an incident in the Chain Lakes Reservoir.
An ice fishing shack had fallen through the ice, with several people driving a pickup truck onto the lake in an attempt to tow the structure out.
The incident prompted a reminder from the RCMP that venturing onto the ice during warmer periods presents a safety risk, especially when doing so with a vehicle.
A similar warning from Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement from earlier this month recommends that anyone taking vehicles out onto the ice should ensure the surface is at least 30 cm (or 12 inches) thick.
The RCMP also recommends telling someone where you'll be, and using gear including ice picks, flotation devices, and warm, identifiable gear.
Anyone venturing onto the ice should also be aware of aerated lakes and local fishing information, which can be seen on the Alberta Conservation Association website.
Going into these situations unprepared not only endangers yourself, but local first responders too, say the RCMP.