Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation is advising all Citizens, especially families with children to use extreme caution around lakes, ditches, rivers, and ponds. Ice is very thin and unsafe at this time of year. Parents: Kids should always be within arm’s reach, as thin ice can break suddenly. Even shallow water ice or close to shore can be dangerous.
Be Ice Smart:
- Stay close to children near ice and remind them never to play on frozen ponds, rivers, ditches or creeks.
- Check ice thickness before going out because appearance can be misleading.
- Avoid unfamiliar or untested ice, especially around inlets or moving water.
- Stay away from ice at night when hazards are hard to see.
- Snow-covered ice may not be frozen underneath.
- If you must go on the ice, wear a thermal-protection buoyant suit and carry safety gear.
Remind Children Thin ice is Dangerous:
It may look fun to explore, skate, or slide on, but it can break suddenly, especially close to shore. Please stay back from the shoreline, avoid playing on frozen water, and never go onto any ice without an experienced adult who has checked conditions first.
Recommended Minimum Ice Thickness for New Clear Hard Ice:
- 3″ (8 cm) or less – STAY OFF!
- 4″ (10 cm) – Ice Fishing, Walking, Cross Country Skiing
- 5″ (13 cm) – Snowmobile and ATV Travel
- 8″ – 12″ (20-30 cm) – Small Car or Small SUV Travel
- 12″ – 15″ (30-38 cm) – Medium Truck (F-150, Silverado, etc.) Travel
