## Ice conditions still unsafe
As winter gradually sets in across Saskatchewan, RCMP are reminding residents that ice on lakes, rivers, sloughs, ponds, and dugouts is still too thin for safe travel. Even if surfaces appear frozen, current thickness in many areas does not meet safety guidelines for walking, snowmobiling, or driving.
## RCMP safety message
Officers stress that early-season ice can be unpredictable, with weak spots caused by currents, springs, and changing temperatures. The public is urged to stay off natural ice surfaces until conditions clearly meet recommended safety standards.
### Key risk factors
- Moving water under rivers and streams weakens ice, even when the top layer looks solid.
- Warm daytime temperatures and recent weather fluctuations slow the formation of strong, clear ice.
- Man‑made dugouts and ponds may freeze unevenly, creating hidden thin sections.
### Recommended precautions
- Avoid driving vehicles, ATVs, or snowmobiles onto any natural ice until authorities confirm it is safe.
- Keep children and pets away from shorelines and untested ice-covered areas.
- Check local advisories before planning any activities such as ice fishing or skating on natural bodies of water.
> “Ice on lakes, rivers, sloughs, ponds, and dugouts remains too thin to safely support people, vehicles, or equipment,” warn Saskatchewan RCMP as winter slowly takes hold in the province.
### Summary
RCMP emphasize caution and patience, noting that waiting for verified safe ice conditions is essential to prevent avoidable emergencies and rescues this season.
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*Author’s brief summary: Saskatchewan RCMP caution residents that early‑season ice across the province is still dangerously thin, urging people to stay off frozen lakes, rivers, and ponds until conditions are confirmed safe.*
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WestCentralOnline — 2025-11-29