Thin ice has prompted a warning from emergency officials to stay off waterways. (UMANITOBA.CA)
Rising spring temperatures, melting snow and deteriorating ice conditions has Winnipeg first responders urging people to stay away from waterways.
The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service says ice surfaces are thin and fragile at this time of year, and falling into ice-cold water can be deadly.
“Sadly, we see far too many calls each year for water and ice rescues,” said Fred de Groot, WFPS public education officer.
“As we move into spring, no one should be going on any ice surface. Doing so puts yourself and our responders at risk. The ice thickness is unpredictable on all waterways and ponds so we encourage all citizens to steer clear of these surfaces, as well as the banks surrounding them.”
In 2018, the WFPS responded to more than 150 water and ice rescue calls.
The public is also being reminded that even waterways that don’t have a “Danger – Thin Ice” sign near them should be treated the same, including rivers, outfalls, and retention ponds.
On Wednesday, the Assiniboine Park Conservancy closed its duck pond skating rink for the reason, while the Red River Mutual Trail at The Forks recently called it quits last week.
