Frigid temperatures have left a layer of ice on much of the Thames River, but some spots are safer than others.
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Jason Wintermute, manager of watershed and information services with the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, said the organization is “extremely reluctant” to ever say the ice is safe, especially since there is so much variability on the river.
The mouth of the Thames River at Lighthouse Cove has been frozen for well over a week, but between Third and Fifth streets bridges there was open water a few days ago, he said.
Wintermute said it is hard to predict the strength of the ice, especially in Chatham where there are warm water inputs from sewer systems.
“There are areas that are probably over five inches (12 centimeters) now, on the river, which is safe if you find one of those spots,” he said.
Noting there could also be areas on the river that are less than 2.5 cm thick, Wintermute said, “Those are going to be problems if you end up on those.”
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OPP Sgt. Ed Sanchuk, who leads the community service programs in the West Region, recently put out a video message reminding people if they venture out on the ice to remember “no ice is safe ice.”
Going on lakes, ponds or reservoirs “can easily have fatal results,” he said.
“The temperature of the water, if you fall through the ice, is cold enough to take your breath away leading people to panic and then drown,” Sanchuk said.
Once submerged in ice cold water, he said, “Your arms and legs go numb which makes it virtually impossible to swim.”
It also leads to hypothermia due to the reduction of body heat with the possibility of heart failure, he added.
“This can happen to anyone, even if you’re a strong swimmer.”
Those going on the ice are reminded to keep safety in mind and be prepared, Sanchuk said.
If going out on the ice, take survival items including adistress signaling devices such as marine flares, waterproof flashlights or a whistle to help attract attention if you go through the ice, the officer said.
It’s also recommended carrying a fully-charged cellphone and having ice picks in case you fall through the ice, he added.
“Make sure you are out there in pairs, as well,” Sanchuk added. “Please don’t venture on to the ice alone.”
If you do go out on the ice, make sure you tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return, he said.
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