Keep off thin ice: OPP
Even if it looks safe, walking, skating or snowmobiling on early-season ice is a bad idea, according to the Ontario Provincial Police.
"The OPP S.A.V.E. (Snowmobile, All-terrain-vehicle, Vessel Enforcement ) team speaks from recent experience," said Sgt. Oscar Horth. "The ice is just too thin and unpredictable, even on foot people have broken through."
Ice safety and weight-bearing properties of ice can be affected by many factors, including thickness, currents, age of the ice, pressure cracks and snow cover. Ice conditions can change dramatically from one body of water to the next.
Children should never play on or near ice-covered bodies of water unless supervised by an adult who is familiar with local conditions and currents.
Visit the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs website at www.ofsc.on.ca for up to date trail information and snowmobile safety tips.