Fire Services Reminds Residents to Stay off the Ice

With the holidays around the corner and the colder weather moving in, ice safety is a top priority for Greater Sudbury Fire Services. So far, they have not responded to ice related emergencies, but conditions are changing, and ice is only beginning to form on local lakes and rivers.

Please remember:

•    Ice is not yet thick enough to safely walk, fish, or to drive snow machines on.
•    Be cautious around all ice surfaces.
•    Watch for open holes or areas with fast-moving water, which can be dangerously thin.
•    Do not venture onto any ice unless you are sure of its thickness.

When measuring the ice, measure thickness in several locations. White ice has air or snow within it and should be considered questionable for recreational use. Below are the Lifesaving Society’s recommendations for ice thickness based on clear, blue or green ice: 

•    3" (7cm) or less – stay off
•    4" (10cm) - ice fishing, walking, cross country skiing
•    5-7" (13-18cm) - one snowmobile or ATV
•    8"-12" (20-30cm) - one car, group of people
•    12"-15" (30-38cm) - one medium truck (pickup or van)

No ice is without risk. Stay safe, stay informed and protect yourself and others.