The OPP is warning the public to exercise extreme caution near any surfaces that may appear to be frozen.
Although temperatures have been very cold, the significant snowfalls in the traditional snowbelt areas recently have created a situation in which it may appear that there is a thick layer of ice, when in some instances, this is not the case.
Outdoor enthusiasts are being asked to refrain from any ice related activities until they see ice hut operators putting their huts out. These operators not only know the local waters, but will regularly test the ice thickness before allowing their ice huts to be brought out onto the ice and used.
Although there have been no ice-related rescues to speak of as of press time in the OPP West Region, any need for rescues this early in the season has the potential to put the lives of many first responders at great risk, police say.
The advice of the OPP is very simple as at this time “No ice, is safe ice.”
Trails
The snow that has fallen has not allowed for proper snowmobile trail grooming as there is very little base.
The light fluffy snow associated with recent snow squalls cannot be properly packed and many of the trails, especially those in wooded areas should be avoided until the trails are examined and prepared for use.
