February 26, 2025

Spring-like weather conditions prompt OPP to issue safety reminder

The calendar says it's still winter, but the thermometer says it's spring. One thing is for sure: the heavy blanket of snow covering Southwestern Ontario is rapidly turning into bone-chilling runoff, which can pose a serious safety issue.

Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) West Region remind the public to stay away from the slippery banks of icy creeks and rivers. The rapidly-flowing water is barely above the freezing point, meaning anyone unfortunate enough to fall in is in danger of life-threatening hypothermia. Don't forget to keep your pets away from the frigid water too.

Lake and river ice is also melting quickly, which is why it's essential to think twice before venturing out onto any frozen body of water. What looked like a solid sheet of ice yesterday may have transformed into a fragile and dangerous surface overnight. Remember: "No ice is safe ice", and walking onto unsafe ice puts your life and the lives of first responders at risk. Here are some tips that will help keep you and your loved ones safe.

• Check ice thickness - ice must be at least 10 cm thick to be safe for the weight of a person. Make sure to check the ice thickness frequently as you move further onto the ice.
• Have proper safety gear - bring a personal flotation device, an ice pick and a whistle.
• Never go alone - If you do go out alone, tell someone where you'll be and how long you'll be there.
• Always supervise children and pets- never allow children or pets on or near ice covered bodies of water unless they are supervised by an experienced and attentive adult.

Click here for more ice safety tips to help ensure you enjoy the outdoors safely.

 

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