With the winter weather now upon us, Thunder Bay Fire Rescue is encouraging parents, guardians and teachers to speak to their children about the dangers of walking on ice-covered bodies of water and the risk of injury or death associated with exposure to freezing cold water.

Ice conditions throughout the winter should always be considered dangerous, but they are especially dangerous early in the season as thick ice has not yet formed. River banks and icy shorelines should also be avoided, as they pose a slip hazard to anyone walking along them.

“Public safety is our main priority, and we ask residents to stay away from all bodies of water this time of year,” said Deputy Fire Chief Greg Hankkio. “Exposure to cold water can end your life in a matter of minutes.”

In cold water the temperature of your heart, brain, and other vital organs drops, leading to a loss of consciousness and drowning. Exposure to cold water can also cause heart failure. Be safe and be smart, stay off the ice and away from all bodies of water this winter season.

 

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Contact:       Anthony Stokaluk, Public Education Officer – Thunder Bay Fire Rescue, 625-2802, cell 631-7033 or astokaluk@thunderbay.ca