First responders stress safety as more venture onto the ice

In light of recent tragedies in Temiskaming Shores, police in northern Ontario are reminding residents to be careful near lakes and rivers.

First responders stress safety as more venture onto tFollowing recent tragedies in northern Ontario, provincial police and other first responders are reminding the public to be cautious around bodies of water.

Ontario Provincial Police told CTV News that it is advised to check the weather before heading out as conditions can change rapidly in the north.

Officers said to avoid currents or areas where individuals are unsure of the ice conditions.

Additionally, officials said that anglers and outdoor enthusiasts should inform someone of their destination and time of return.

“A reminder to the public that, whether sometimes they’re willing to take a risk themselves when they put themselves at risk, they are also potentially putting, first responders at risk as well, if they’re in a situation where we’re needing to come to their aid,” said Temiskaming OPP Const. Martin Thibault.

“That becomes, a concern, that that person should have before venturing out on, questionable ice.”

Greater Sudbury deputy fire chief Jesse Oshell echoed this sentiment in a recent talk with CTV News.

He said that individuals should always check conditions before going out on the ice and just because you see a number of people already on the ice does not mean someone has properly checked the ice conditions.

“It’s kind of deceiving,” said Oshell.

Callendar fire chief Todd Daley said he recommends bringing a personal floatation device (PFD) when venturing onto the ice.

“If you go through the ice, a PFD will help you immensely,” he said.

“Bring rope and bring a cell phone.”

First responders said that for anyone willing to step out on a frozen lake, remember the colour of ice can indicate its strength – individuals should look for clear, black ice as that is the strongest and avoid cloudy, white ice because that can be the most dangerous since it often thaws and freezes.

Officials told CTV News that the weakest ice will be in the centre or along the edge of the water. Avoid streams and flowing water, even if they look frozen. Avoid ice that has recently frozen, thawed and then frozen again. A safer place for skating, fishing or other winter activities is on a still body of water, such as a lake.

First responders stress that no ice is safe ice.

With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalists Chelsea Papineau and Eric Taschner