Winnipeg, MB – With temperatures dropping, residents are advised that thin ice conditions are present on Winnipeg waterways, including drainage ditches, culverts, streams, creeks, retention ponds and rivers.
Parents and teachers are urged to speak to children and students about the dangers of waterways. The ice surfaces are thin and fragile, and falling into ice-cold water can be deadly.
“No one should risk being on the ice at this time of the year,” said Fred deGroot, Public Education Officer, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS). “The ice thickness is unpredictable on all waterways and ponds so we encourage all residents to steer clear of these surfaces, as well as the banks surrounding them.”
“Falling through thin ice is preventable and frequently ends with tragic consequences,” said Stephane Boulet, Patrol Sergeant, Winnipeg Police Service (WPS). “The WPS considers all frozen bodies of water within the city of Winnipeg to be unsafe for recreational use with the exception of areas that are monitored in accordance with the City’s Frozen Waterways By-Law.”
The public is also reminded that while the WPS River Patrol Unit places “Danger - Thin Ice” signage at specific locations including outfalls, retention ponds and other potentially dangerous areas, ALL ice should be considered unsafe even if warning signage is not present.
On average, the WFPS responds to 200 water and ice safety calls each year.
For information on thin ice safety, please visit Winnipeg Police Service – River Patrol or contact the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service - Public Education Branch. Updated ice conditions for City-run facilities can be found at City of Winnipeg – Parks and Open Space.