SASKATOON – The Saskatoon Fire Department is cautioning people to stay off the South Saskatchewan River and other bodies of water this spring.
As freezing temperatures dwindle, ice surfaces become unstable and unpredictable.
Water pooling on top of the ice or melting at the edge of rivers, lakes or ponds is a sign the ice is weakening and may not be strong enough to support a person’s weight.
These areas also get very slippery at this time of year and are not a safe place for anyone to play, especially children.
In case of an emergency, call 911 and don’t go out onto the ice yourself.
“If you decide to venture out and help that friend or family member or your animal, there’s a likelihood you’ll go through the ice as well,” said Morgan Hackl, assistant fire chief.
“So what we’ll do is send out our rescue team immediately and we’re trained to get that person out of the ice.”
Since Jan. 1, local fire crews have responded to the river 20 times.
The Water Security Agency (WSA) of Saskatchewan also issued a warning this week, stating ice jams are possible during the 2014 spring runoff.
READ MORE: Corman Park braces for above normal spring runoff
Due to below average temperatures this winter season, ice thickness in many areas is greater than normal.
Ice jamming can create temporary dams, backing up water which can be released in a sudden surge causing flooding.
Comments