Before lacing up your skates and heading out to enjoy a frozen pond or lake this winter, it’s vital to ensure the ice is safe. It’s a message OPP’s Sgt. Ed Sanchuk wants everyone to take to heart.
Over the years, Sanchuk has responded to many tragic calls involving individuals who gambled with ice conditions that were not ready for use. He urges people to avoid taking unnecessary risks that could put their lives—and the lives of first responders—in jeopardy.
There are three key steps to keep in mind before stepping onto any frozen surface: conduct a visual inspection for signs of cracks, slush, or open water; check the colour of the ice—clear blue ice is typically the strongest, while white or grey ice can be much weaker; and finally, measure its thickness. A minimum of 10 centimetres (4 inches) is recommended for activities like skating, and much more is needed for snowmobiles or vehicles.
Sanchuk also points out that it doesn’t matter if you’re a strong swimmer or not as the cold water can quickly disorient and incapacitate even the most experienced swimmers.
Sanchuk emphasizes that no ice is 100% safe, especially with fluctuating temperatures in Ontario winters. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and find another way to enjoy the season than to take a risk that could have devastating consequences.
