As temperatures fluctuate across northern Ontario, the Municipality of Huron Shores is warning residents that no frozen surface is ever completely risk-free

NEWS RELEASE MUNICIPALITY OF HURON SHORES ************************* Ice on lakes, rivers, and ponds may look solid, but conditions can change rapidly with temperature fluctuations, rain, fresh snowfall, or moving water, all of which can weaken ice and make it unpredictable.

Even in mid-winter or early spring, what looks safe isn’t always safe.

To help you stay safe while enjoying winter activities like skating, ice fishing, or snowmobiling, we encourage you to take these three critical steps before going onto the ice:

Step 1: Do a visual inspection

Before stepping out, scan the surface of the ice thoroughly.

Signs that ice is weak or unsafe include:

• Cracks, holes, or breaks in the ice
• Water on top of the ice surface
• Ice that looks soft, slushy, or “mushy”
• Evidence of flowing water around the edges
• Snow sitting on the ice — snow can insulate the surface and hide danger

If you see these indicators, do not go out on the ice.

Step 2: Note the colour of the ice

Ice colour tells a lot about its strength:

• Blue Ice: Clear and strong — the most reliable for safe use.
• White/Opaque Ice: Weaker than blue ice and often formed by snow freezing — exercise caution.
• Dull Grey Ice: Water is present under or within the ice — this ice is unsafe and should be avoided.

Never judge ice strength by appearance alone, temperature swings and other conditions can make ice look solid when it isn’t.

Step 3: Measure ice thickness

Ice thickness must always be checked before you go out. Use an ice auger, spud bar, or similar tool to drill a test hole, and check thickness in multiple spots since conditions vary across a lake or river.

Here are widely accepted safe-thickness guidelines:

• At least ~15 cm (6 in) for one person (e.g., skating or walking)
• ~20 cm (8 in) or more for groups and activities like hockey
• ~25 cm (10 in) for snowmobiles
• ~30 cm (12 in) or more for a light vehicle — and always more if the ice is not clear blue

Always measure thickness repeatedly as you travel.

Additional Safety Tips

• Never go on the ice alone. Always bring a buddy.
• Tell someone your plan — where you’re going and when you’ll return.
• Wear appropriate clothing and carry safety gear (e.g., flotation aid, ice picks, whistle).
• Avoid the ice at night or during poor visibility.

Ice conditions can change day-to-day and even hour-to-hour, no ice is ever completely risk-free. Before you go, take a few extra moments to check, assess, and make safe choices.

Outdoor winter activities are an important part of life in Northern Ontario, but safety should always come first. Taking a few extra precautions can help prevent serious injuries or emergencies.

For more information on ice safety, including recommended ice thickness and additional safety tips, please click here.

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