With temperatures starting to warm up in the area the Kenora OPP is reminding residents to be extra careful when embarking onto the ice.
OPP Provincial Constable, Jason Canfield says when on the ice in a vehicle or snow machine to be aware of water or slush on the surface.
“Be very wary of any kind of areas that look like they may have holes and the snow has disappeared and It looks like there’s a bit of water it usually means it might be right through,” said Canfield.
Police are also suggesting packing the right equipment in the event you do get stranded or stuck out on the ice.
“Make sure you have a safety bag that’s going to make you have the ability to start a fire or have food, Canfield added.
Another thing to keep in mind Canfield said is to tell someone like a family member or a friend where you’re going so if a rescue is needed people know where to find you.
The OPP would like to remind people of the following:
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3" (7 cm) (new ice) - KEEP OFF
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4" (10 cm) - suitable for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and walking (approx. 200 pounds)
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5" (12 cm) - suitable for a single snowmobile or ATV (approx. 800 pounds)
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8" - 12" (20 - 30 cm) - suitable for one car, group of people (approx. 1500 - 2000 pounds)
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12" - 15" (30 - 38 cm) - suitable for a light pickup truck or a van
Even at a 9" - 10" thickness, there may be unforeseen hazards such as a flowing current underneath that is ceaselessly weakening the underside of the ice. In this instance, even the thickness is not a good indicator of safety, as the ice could collapse at any time.
Lifesaving Society Ontario says that two-thirds of ice-related incidents occur on lakes and the rest occur on rivers.
The society added 62 per cent of snowmobile incidents involve open water or ice holes and 38 per cent occur on thin ice.
They have provided several steps people can take to stay ice smart:
- Keep away from unfamiliar paths or unknown ice,
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Avoid travelling on the ice at night - clear hard ice is the only kind of ice recommended for travel,
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If you must venture onto the ice, wear a thermal protection buoyant suit to increase your chances of survival if you fall through. If you do not have one, wear a lifejacket/PFD over an ordinary snowmobile suit or layered winter clothing,
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Avoid slushy ice, thawed ice that has recently refrozen, layered or rotten ice caused by sudden temperature changes, and ice near moving water (i.e., rivers or currents),
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Never go on the ice alone; a buddy may be able to rescue you or go for help if you get into difficulty,
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Before you leave the shore, inform someone of your destination and expected time of return, and, ideally,
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Assemble a small personal safety kit no larger than the size of a man's wallet to carry with you. The kit should include a lighter, waterproof matches, magnesium fire starter, pocketknife, compass and whistle. You should also carry ice picks, an ice staff, a rope and a cellular phone.