Keeping safe on and around the ice is a critical life skill for many of us here in the Great White North. Regardless, myths abound. Here are a few of the more common myths about ice safety. Remember, ice is never 100% safe, so exercise caution at all times.
Myth 1: Cold weather makes solid, thick, safe ice
Changes in temperature, along with wind, snow covering ice, water currents, and changing water levels can all weaken ice. Likewise, ice doesn’t form in a uniform thickness. It may be 30 cm thick in one area, and only a few centimetres thick steps away.
Myth 2: Snow helps ice form quickly
Snow acts like a blanket on top of the ice, insulating it and sometimes melting it. Ice under snow will be thinner and weaker than exposed ice. Often, ice with layers of snow on top may not even support one person’s weight.
Myth 3: Thick ice is always strong
Thick ice can hide layers of snow or water that weaken it, and spring ice or ice that has thawed and frozen several times can be thick, but very fragile. The strongest ice is clear black, blue or green.
Myth 4: Strong swimmers can easily escape if they fall through ice
Swimming skills play only a small part in being able to rescue yourself if you fall through the ice. Once your body is submersed in very cold water, it will quickly go into cold water shock. In as little as five minutes, cold water robs you of your ability to move your limbs, making your swimming ability irrelevant. Never rely on swimming skills as a safety measure while on the ice; instead, plan only to travel on safe ice.
Myth 5: Extreme cold means safe, thick ice
A quick cold snap with very low temperatures can actually weaken the ice, causing large cracks within less than a day, whereas a warm spell can take several days to weaken the ice.
Unless you’re absolutely sure that ice is thick enough, stay off! The colour of the ice indicates its strength and quality. Blue ice is the strongest, while grey ice is unsafe. Avoid ice that has recently frozen, thawed, and then frozen again. Ice thickness should be a minimum of 15 cm for skating, walking or skiing in small groups; 20 cm for larger groups, such as skating parties; and 25 cm for snowmobiles or ATVs. Stay safe this winter, and get more
ice safety tips here.