CENTRE WELLINGTON – With the weather unseasonably warm, troubles have emerged province-wide with maintaining community outdoor ice surfaces.
Just this week, the Town of Erin advised residents to stay off the Hillsburgh Pond and other nearby bodies of water.
Residents are being advised to stay off Hillsburgh Pond and other bodies of water as ice conditions are unsafe. The Red Cross recommends that ice should be at least 15 cm (6 inches) thick to carry a person, but if a group of friends is skating, ensure it’s 20 cm, or 8 inches. pic.twitter.com/Ar4ow8RFeX
— Town of Erin (@TownofErin) February 5, 2024
Centre Wellington Fire and Rescue Fire Prevention Officer Christopher Paluch reiterated that message to the Grand at 101. He says while certain measurables are in place to keep ice safe, there are always risks involved.
Paluch says now is the time to stay away from the ice, but added he wants to equip residents with what to do in the instance of an accident.
Paluch says firefighters have been training tremendous amounts with ice. He says training has included suits that keep dry and warm during recue.
He went on to say if temperatures change in coming weeks, it will still be too soon to test the waters.
Paluch says best practice is to encourage a person who has fallen through ice to work to rescue themselves as help arrives.
