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Photo Courtesy EverythingGP Staff
By Tanner Smith
"if in doubt, don't go out!"

Alberta RCMP reminds residents about ice safety

Dec 29, 2023 | 1:19 PM

Alberta RCMP has sent out a release, reminding the public about ice safety this winter, following a weekend where Mounties responded to multiple cases of thin ice, one resulting in three deaths.

Three people did not show up to Christmas Dinner after leaving on a family UTV side-by-side on December 23, in Lac Ste Anne County.

RCMP’s search then ended on Boxing Day (December 26) when the family was recovered deceased near the Alexis Bridge.

Now, Alberta RCMP would like everyone to prioritize ice safety, especially this winter, as we are experiencing above-average temperatures.

In the release, Mounties shared a list of tips to follow when traveling over ice:

  • Keeping a close eye on the weather
  • Cross ice only during the day
  • Checking ice thickness and stability before you cross
  • Avoid slushy, thawed, recently refrozen ice, or any ice near moving water
  • Never travel across ice alone
  • Make your plans known to others
  • Know ice thickness – walk or skate on ice that is 15+ cm thick, 20+ cm for a group of people, and 25+ cm for off-highway vehicles
  • Never attempt to cross ice impaired
  • Always be prepared for the worst-case scenario
  • Bring a personal safety kit – a lighter, waterproof matches, fire starting materials, pocket knife, whistle, a cellphone in a waterproof pouch, and a fully charged GPS

Alberta RCMP added in the release, “if in doubt, don’t go out!”

Locally, the City of Grande Prairie has also warned residents about the danger of skating on stormwater ponds.

Transportation Director Wade Nellis said in a release “Residents are encouraged to enjoy winter activities in designated and safe areas, such as municipal ice rinks, where conditions are carefully managed and monitored.”

Anyone wanting more information on safe skating locations in Grande Prairie can visit the City’s website.

by Tanner Smith