With the fluctuation of winter weather conditions and temperatures, provincial police are urging residents to be safe near and on the ice.
Lambton OPP Cst. Jamie Bydeley said multiple factors can affect ice thickness.
"People need to be cautious when the temperatures are fluctuating like we're seeing currently," he said. "The ice can maybe appear thick or thicker than it is so people need to be aware of that."
Bydeley said OPP will typically get called to help when ice fishers get stranded. If a rescue is needed in a large body of water, like Lake St. Clair, it will involve multiple agencies such as Chatham-Kent OPP.
"One of those kinds of rescues, it really takes a lot of resources. Police are typically involved, fire departments usually, even the coast guard," said Bydeley. "I believe we saw it last year where we even contacted the U.S. Coast Guard to come over with the helicopter to assist for a rescue."
If residents plan on taking part in recreational activities on or near the ice, the OPP asks that a few things be taken into consideration.
"Check the weather and avoid ice-related activities on warm or stormy days," said Bydeley. "Children should not play on or near ice-covered bodies of water, avoid vehicle travel on ice, [and] never go onto the ice alone -- a buddy may be able to rescue you or go for help if necessary."
It's also recommended that ice fishers wear a thermal protection buoyant suit and carry supplies such as ice picks, rope, and a cell phone.
Bydeley said it's also incredibly important that people not be near ice-covered bodies of water if their judgment is clouded by alcohol or drugs.
