As temperatures begin to hover near the freezing mark and ice begins to form on rivers, waterways, ponds, and ditches Winnipeg’s first responders are urging people to use extreme caution around them.
Ice surfaces can be thin and can easily collapse when people or pets venture onto what appear to be frozen surfaces. Falling into ice-cold water can be deadly.
“Any waterway, including rivers, streams, ditches and retention ponds should be considered unsafe at this time of year,” said Lisa Gilmour, Assistant Chief, Community Risk Reduction, WFPS. “As a matter of safety, we urge all residents to stay away from these surfaces and their banks.”
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The responders note that while some locations may be signed “Danger – Thin Ice” all bodies of water should be considered unsafe even if warning signs are not present.
“Signage is one component of making this a safe winter season on and around Winnipeg waterways, but nothing beats those heartfelt personal reminders to and from loved ones to stay off the ice – especially at this time of year,” says River Patrol Officer Ray Duma.
According to the city the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responds to about 150 water and ice safety calls for service each year.
