Manitobans are being reminded to be cautious while driving on ice roads or frozen lakes.
With warmer weather on the way, the chances of falling through ice increase as the ice softens and melts.
Last year, Manitoba Public Insurance recorded 22 claims for vehicles that went through the ice. This year, they have already received four.
MPI says that going through ice into cold water is potentially fatal as it can lead to hypothermia or drawing.
"Drivers need to consider whether it is reasonable and safe to head out onto the ice,” said Maria Campos, Vice President & Chief Customer and Product Officer. “Understand the rules when travelling on ice roads and be prepared in case an emergency occurs. Manitobans should take special care when driving on surfaces that are slippery and can change without warning."
The recommended thickness for walking on ice is 10 centimetres, for a car, the ice should be 20-30 centimetres and for a truck, it needs to be between 30-38 centimetres.
Dr. Gordon Giesbrecht, known as “Professor Popsicle” for his 30-year career studying submersion and the effects of cold water, says drivers need to prepare accordingly when commuting on ice roads.
"Ice road safety looks a little different than the safety precautions we normally take on the roadways. For example, if you are heading out onto ice, unfasten your seatbelt and open your window so you can quickly exit the vehicle if it goes through the ice. I use the term ‘SWOC’: Seatbelts off, Windows open, Out immediately, Children first. If you remember those four things, your chances of getting out of a submerged vehicle increase."
He also encourages motorists to let people know where you're travelling and what time you're expected to arrive at your destination.
One-third of all drownings in Manitoba occur during the winter months – between October and April.