News & Events

FOCA urges safety on the lake this winter

FOCA reminds all winter cottaging enthusiasts to take precautions when skiing, skating, or snowmobiling on lakes this winter.
Numerous recent ice-related incidents in the North Kawartha area and in Haliburton remind us that we all need to be extra cautious out on the (frozen) water.  Lakes and rivers freeze unevenly, and safe conditions on one part of a waterway does not guarantee good ice everywhere. Know your local area and conditions before you set out.

      Other considerations for safe winter activity out on the lake (with notes from The Lifesaving Society):

• The recommended minimum ice thickness for new clear hard ice is:
  

3" (7cm) or less STAY OFF
4" (10cm) ice fishing, walking, cross country skiing
5" (12cm) one snowmobile or ATV
8"- 12" (20-30cm) one car or small pickup truck
12"- 15" (30-38cm) one medium truck (pickup or van)

• Measure ice thickness in several locations. Local conditions such as currents and water depths can affect ice thickness.  
  
  
• White ice has air or snow within it and should be considered less safe for recreational use.
  
  
• Consult knowledgeable local individuals before heading out.
  
  
• Avoid traveling on ice at night. The inability to see open holes in the ice can be a cause of winter drownings.
  
  
• Never go onto ice alone, as a buddy may be able to rescue you or go for help if you get into trouble. Before you leave shore, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
  
  
• Stay off river ice, as currents can quickly change ice thickness and make for variable conditions on different parts of the river.
  
  
• Wear a snowmobile flotation suit or a lifejacket over your winter clothes to increase your survival chances if you do go through the ice.
  
  
• Take safety equipment with you, which include ice picks, rope, and also a personal safety kit which includes a pocketknife, compass, whistle, fire starter kit and a cell phone.
  
  
• Avoid alcohol, which can impair your judgment and speeds up the development of hypothermia.
  
  
• If you drive on ice, turn on your lights, and have an escape plan - open your windows, unlock your doors, to allow you to quickly escape from your vehicle.
  
  
• Always supervise children playing on or near ice, and insist that they wear a lifejacket, PFD or thermal protection buoyant suit.

Winter is a great time to get out and enjoy the cottage.  Let's make sure we do it safely!

You can find more helpful tips and information about snowmobiling from OFSC, and from FOCA sponsors, Yamaha Motor Canada.  For information about cross country trails in Ontario, visit Canada Trails, or Cross Country Ontario.