Prince Edward County OPP are reminding the public to use “extreme caution” when going out onto a frozen lake or river.
“While the ice may look tempting for winter activities, please do not trust the ice,” OPP say in a release.
Temperature changes or a fresh snowfall can contribute to concealing thin ice. OPP and other first responders often say no ice is safe ice.
OPP provided the following tips when determining ice safety:
- Wear a thermal protection buoyant suit or a lifejacket/PFD to increase your changes of survival if you fall through.
- Never go on the ice alone.
- Before you venture out on ice, inform someone of your destination and expected time of return.
- Avoid ice near moving water, layered ice caused by temperature changes and thawed ice that has recently refrozen.
- Assemble a personal safety kit which can include a rope, whistle, compass and ice picks.
Police say the quality and thickness of ice can change very quickly and to not put your own life and the lives of first responders at risk.
