Safety
Natural ice skating areas are not maintained or patrolled. Skate at your own risk. Visit the Parks Canada website for info on skating on ponds, lakes and rivers.
Avoid traveling on ice at night
At night it is very difficult to see open holes in the ice. This is a frequent cause of drownings.
Never go onto ice alone
A buddy may be able to rescue you or go for help if you get into difficulty. Before you leave shore, tell someone where you are going and expected time of return.
Avoid alcohol
Alcohol and drugs impairs your judgment and speeds up the development of hypothermia.
Always supervise children playing on or near ice
Insist that they wear a life jacket/personal flotation device (PFD) or thermal protection buoyant suit.
Get more safety tips from the Canadian Red Cross