Frozen ponds and creeks across Mississauga can look tempting for a skate or a shortcut. The City of Mississauga issued a reminder on Friday, Jan. 16, that no natural body of water is safe to walk on, even when the ice appears solid.
Here are six things the city wants residents to know.
1. It's against the rules in city parks
Going onto frozen ponds, lakes, streams and rivers in city parks is prohibited under Mississauga's Parks By-law. If you see someone on the ice at Osprey Marsh, Lake Aquitaine, Rattray Marsh or another city stormwater pond, call 311, or 905-615-4311 from outside Mississauga.
2. Keep children and pets well back
The city asks parents to keep a close eye on children near water and to keep dogs leashed near ponds, creeks and the lakeshore.
3. Know how fast cold water works
Falling into icy water is a shock to the body. The city says it takes about 10 minutes for the cold to set into a person's muscles.
4. If you fall through
Try to stay calm and slow your breathing.
Keep your nose and mouth above the water, yell for help and hang on to the ice.
Turn toward the direction you came from.
Rest your arms on the ice and kick your legs behind you to push yourself up and out.
Once out, don't stand up. Roll away from the break to spread your weight.
Call 911.
5. If you see someone fall through
Call 911 right away.
Don't walk out on the ice yourself.
Throw something the person can grab, such as a rope, a stick or a life preserver.
Keep them calm and talking. Encourage them to keep their head above water and to kick while pushing their chest onto the ice.
If they get out, help them dry off as quickly as possible.
6. Skate where the ice is checked
The city runs outdoor rinks at Mississauga Celebration Square and Woodhurst Heights Park. Many neighbourhood parks also have community rinks. Look for the city's "Ice is Ready" sign before stepping on.
