Lethbridge residents are being reminded about ice safety as cold weather continues.
The city’s parks department and Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services are urging people to be cautious around lakes, ponds and rivers. Officials warn that frozen waterways may look inviting but can be dangerous.
Tips for staying safe include avoiding ice on the Oldman River, urban lakes and storm ponds. Ice on rivers can be unpredictable because of currents and fluctuating water levels. While ice on storm ponds is not safe and should be avoided entirely.
Pet owners are reminded to keep animals on a leash near frozen water and never try to rescue a pet or person who falls through the ice. Call 911 and let trained responders help. People can use a branch, rope or other object to assist from a distance, or throw a floating device such as a life jacket until help arrives.
Skating is permitted only at designated areas at Henderson Lake, Nicholas Sheran Lake, and Northwest and East ponds at Legacy Park, where ice is checked weekly. Even if ice looks solid, officials say only marked areas are safe.
