Be aware of changing ice conditions

File photo (Chatham-Kent Fire & Emergency Services)

Chatham-Kent Fire & Emergency Services is reminding CK residents to be extra cautious near ice covered water, as ice conditions can change rapidly.

No ice is without risk. Even thick ice may be weak and the quality and thickness can be misleading. CKFES is encouraging everyone to stay off of unfamiliar ice. Never walk on rivers or retention ponds, and remember that ice thickness can change on different parts of the water.

“This time of year with temperatures rising and falling, it is even more important to be aware of the changing ice conditions,” stated Fire Paramedic Chief Bob Crawford in a press release. “Please take care of yourself, your children and your pets.”

Drownings do occur from October to April when most people have no intention of going into the water. Please keep back from the water’s edge and teach children not to go onto the ice unsupervised under any circumstances. Keep your pets on a leash when walking near ice covered water. Never try to recuse a person or pet who is on or has fallen through the ice – call 911 immediately.

CKFES responds to ice/water incidents. All 19 stations have the ability to operate as a land based rescue team. Stations #1 Chatham, #3 Wallaceburg, #5 Chatham-North and #14 Erieau provide an enhanced level of ice/water rescue from their strategically placed locations on the Sydenham River, Thames River and Lake Erie.

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