As winter sets in and the ice begins to form on local bodies of water, residents are being urged to take extra precautions when venturing outdoors.

Michael VanderBaaren, Fire Prevention Officer, Clearwater Regional Fire Rescue Services (CRFRS), emphasized that the safety of people venturing onto the ice varies greatly depending on the activity and location.

“There is no single blanket statement for ice safety in our vast region,” VanderBaaren said. “It’s crucial to understand the minimum ice thickness required for your specific activity, whether it’s fishing, walking, snowmobiling, or driving. Ice thickness can vary significantly even within the same body of water, so it’s important to test and verify the ice thickness regularly.”

He advised that for a person walking on clear ice, the minimum safe thickness is 10 centimeters. For snowmobiles, that requirement increases to 20 centimeters, and for light vehicles, such as a three-quarter ton pickup, the ice should be at least 40 centimeters thick.

He also warned that snow-covered or white ice, known as “snow ice,” is up to 50 per cent weaker than clear ice, and suggested doubling the minimum thickness requirements for safety.

VanderBaaren shared that in the unfortunate event someone falls through the ice, the primary concern should be securing their airway to prevent drowning. “You’re more likely to drown before you freeze, so it’s critical to keep your airway above water,” he explained. “Get your arms out onto the ice, try to stay calm, and call for help immediately. It’s always safer to travel in pairs or groups rather than alone, especially on ice.”

In town, Rocky Mountain House officials say the Credit Union Co-op Aquatic Centre actively promotes ice safety in the late fall and again in the spring. 

 Residents using the pool are encouraged to check out the display in the lobby, and talk to pool staff about ice and water safety.

North Saskatchewan River as seen from Rocky Mountain House. (Jordan Rein/94.5 Rewind Radio)

Town officials also say that storm retention ponds around town are never deemed safe for ice activities, and residents should obey the signs and not recreate on these bodies of water.

Additionally, VanderBaaren warned against venturing onto ice over rivers, especially the North Saskatchewan River. “Ice on rivers is never safe,” he stated, citing hidden undercuts and unsupported ice bridges that pose serious risks.

While ice rescue calls are relatively rare in the area, VanderBaaren noted that rivers pose a greater hazard due to their dynamic nature.