Neighbourhood Watch Bulletin for 2022-03-17

One item:

• Unpredictable ice.

If you’re interested in helping out, see our Neighbourhood Watch Page.

Contact Cst. Darren Joseph directly (west of O-Train, Line 2) at josephd@ottawapolice.ca or 613-236-1222, ext. 5871.
Contact Cst. Stephanie Lemieux directly (east of O-Train, Line 2) at lemieuxs@ottawapolice.ca or 613-236-1222, ext. 5290.

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Warning: Unpredictable ice

With warmer temperatures upon us, the Ottawa Police Service is warning residents of the dangers of thin ice and open bodies of water.

“The change in seasons means melting snow and rain that often cause an increase in groundwater runoff and possible flooding to weaken ice surfaces – making ice condition unpredictable and dangerous.”

Police safety tips:

• Always supervise children playing outside who may wander or want to play near rivers, ponds, creeks or ditches etc. A child can drown in less than two inches (5 cm) of water.
• Cold water temperatures can prevent even strong swimmers from escaping once they’ve fallen through the ice.
• Watch your pets closely so they don’t venture near or onto thin ice.

During spring snowmobile runs, it is best to stick to the trails and away from open bodies of water or thin ice. Any ice less than about 15cm (6 inches) thick is a hazard.

Know the 1-10-1 Principle of cold water immersion?

• 1 Minute = Cold Shock
• 10 Minutes = Cold Incapacitation
• 1 Hour = HYPOTHERMIA

Riding after dark and consuming alcohol or drugs are factors in more than half of snowmobile-related drownings.

More ice safety tips are available online.