Lifesaving Society Manitoba recommends you skip that river trail skating date you planned for this weekend as it is not worth the risk.

“With all of these warm temperatures, our general advice is stay off the ice,” states Safety Management Coordinator Dr. Christopher Love. While the ice is likely still thicker than the recommended ten-centimetre minimum on the local streams and ponds, Love says the unseasonably mild conditions have created a dangerous and often deceptive environment.

“It may not be immediately obvious that the ice is melting,” he warns, but Just because there is no standing water on top of the ice does not mean it is safe. When conditions are warm and sunny with minimal breeze, Love says a section of ice can be reduced to half its size within the span of a single day. If the ice is on a flowing water body, like a river, he says that melting process can take place even quicker as the bottom of the ice is eroding at the same time.

The skating trail along the Red River has closed, and Love says other regions should think about following suit.

Love acknowledges that many municipalities and communities have created their own skating rinks or trails this season but says those forms of recreation should no longer be considered viable. He notes the Red River Trail near The Forks was shut down last weekend and other regions should follow that lead.  

“It is getting treacherous out there,” he remarks. “If you do choose to go on the ice, you need to be prepared to go through it and into cold water because that is a very likely circumstance at this point in the year.”

While the weather may seem balmy, Love says the waters most certainly are not. If a person falls through the ice, gets their head wet, and is not wearing a proper flotation device, he says it is possible that they could drown in ten seconds or less.

To anyone who does dare venture out onto the frozen waters, Love emphasizes the importance of life jackets or “float coats” as well as taking frequent ice measurements. Ultimately, though, he advises against it. As an alternative to that skate date of yours, Love suggests going for a snowshoe or a hike instead.