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Unsafe ice conditions on Lake Simcoe

Open water is now present on parts of Lake Simcoe, including Kempenfelt Bay
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Stock photo

NEWS RELEASE

SOUTH SIMCOE SERVICE

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The South Simcoe Police Marine Unit would like to remind residents and visitors to our community of the importance of staying safe as a result of the milder weather we are experiencing. Through awareness, enforcement and public education, police are warning citizens to be diligent and be aware of changing ice conditions.

As a result of the unseasonably warm weather, open water is now present on parts of Lake Simcoe, including Kempenfelt Bay and surrounding rivers and streams. Police are warning the public that lakes and streams are now NOT SAFE. Check with fish hut operators before venturing out. They are the local experts.

Remember no ice or body of water is ever completely safe. Any individual enjoying recreational activities near a body of water must make a personal decision to do so, realizing that there is a degree of risk associated with this choice. It is crucial that citizens take individual responsibility in evaluating the dangers of any recreational activity. If you make smart, educated choices on safety, accidents can be prevented.

Following these safety tips can help keep you safe:

    •    Wear proper floatation attire
    •    Don’t fish or snowmobile alone
    •    Tell someone about your plans and specifically where you are going
    •    Know the condition of the ice before you go out and take into consideration the recent changes the weather may have had on the ice
    •    Be suspicious of gray, dark or porous spots in the ice as these may be soft areas. Ice is generally strongest where it is hard and blue
    •    Carry a cellular phone with you to call for help in the event of an emergency
    •    Never leave a child unattended near any body of water. Children are curious and can quickly wander off

Ice fishing enthusiasts are reminded that all fishing huts must be removed from Lake Simcoe by midnight on Wednesday, Mar. 15, 2017.

South Simcoe Police reminds the public there are inherent risks when doing activities in an uncontrolled and unpredictable natural setting. If you make smart, educated choices on safety, accidents can be prevented.

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