Ice Safety Tips and Procedures

Keep the following guidelines in mind when playing near or on the ice:

• Contact your local fish and wildlife office for ice conditions. For a list of fish and wildlife offices, see page 24 of the 2008 Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations; or call the Alberta Sustainable Resource Development Information Centre at 1-877-944-0313.
• Never walk on ice that is less than 10 centimetres (four inches) thick and do not drive on ice that is less than 30 centimetres (12 inches) thick. When in doubt, don’t do it.
• Beware of ice near the inlet and outlet of streams. Always be extra cautious on river and stream ice. Ice can vary in thickness and strength from area to area because of temperature, water current, springs, snow cover, and time of year.
• Do not drive fast, follow closely behind or park near another vehicle on the ice. Ice can bend and crack with the weight of people, vehicles or heavy snow. Keep an eye on ice and snow conditions ahead of you. If the weather has been warm or heavy snow has depressed the ice, there may be hidden slush traps that can trap a vehicle.
• When travelling in a vehicle on lake ice, keep your seat belts off, open your window a crack and half unlatch your door so it can be opened quickly. Always carry a shovel and tow rope in your vehicle.
• Always carry waterproof matches and nails or spikes in your pocket to help you get out of the water.

If you should fall through the ice:

• Exit your vehicle immediately.
• If in the water, go to the ice edge and break your way to ice that can hold your weight. Time is of the essence.
• Crawl on your belly up on the ice, spreading your weight as far as possible. Use nails or spikes for added traction.
• Immediately seek a warm place to remove wet clothes. This may mean going to shore and quickly building a fire.