Friday, January 12, 2018

Ice Safety Reminder (Midland, ON) - Members of the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) want to remind all surface users that the recent cold temperatures may not have made as much ice as you may think. A photograph (attached) taken by staff of the departing ice breaker on Jan 2, 2018 clearly shows poor ice and open water off Sawlog Bay Point in Tiny Township. Ice surface users are reminded that no body of water freezes the same and that no ice is safe ice, knowing before you go are really important points if you should venture out on frozen surfaces. The strong winds and accompanying high and low water levels of the recent storms also has put intense stress on the ice that has formed on the back bays and open areas of Southern Georgian Bay. Having a plan and communicating with family and friends is very important before heading out on the ice as well as having a fully charged cellphone that has already been proven to be a life saver in several instances of late 2017 and early 2018. Having the proper equipment such as a floater suit, ice picks, a throw line, GPS and or cellphone are extremely important should you break through the ice surface. Responding emergency services do take time to ready and get on scene and do come at a cost as there is always a risk of injury or worse to emergency responders who may never forget the incident. Of note, some area municipalities do have a bylaw in place with a process for full cost recovery of emergency services costs provided to the rescued persons. Remember, no ice is safe ice, know before you go and consider the risks to yourself and others should you venture out on frozen surfaces. Police remind motorists that an essential part of the enforcement job is to save lives and reduce injuries on our trails, waterways and roadways. Educating the public about safe driving practices is a priority.

Media Contact Provincial Constable David Hobson 705-733-5440 david.hobson@opp.ca @OPP_CR

Posted at 12:06 PM