Ice safety reminders after water rescue

Residents are being reminded about the dangers of open water in colder weather. Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) responded to a water rescue incident earlier today. At approximately 8:30 a.m. crews from two stations were dispatched to the Oldman River near the Highway 3 bridge. They arrived to find an individual stranded on ice in the middle of the river.

Thanks to the crews’ swift actions, the individual was rescued without injury. 

This incident serves as an important reminder of the dangers of venturing on partially frozen water bodies. As winter conditions prevail:

1. Stay away from ice
   Avoid the Oldman River, urban lakes and storm ponds at all times. River ice is unpredictable due to currents and fluctuating water levels, while storm pond ice is unstable and prohibited for any use.
   
   
2. Use Designated Areas
   Outdoor skating is permitted only in designated areas at Henderson Lake, Nicholas Sheran Lake, and Legacy Pond. During the winter, City staff monitor these areas weekly to ensure ice thickness meets safety standards. The latest conditions can be found here.
   
   
3. Protect Your Pets
   Keep pets on a leash near frozen water. If your pet falls through the ice, do not attempt a rescue. Call 9-1-1 immediately, and our trained responders will help.
   
   
4. Know What to Do in an Emergency
   If someone falls through the ice, call 9-1-1 right away. Do not go onto the ice yourself. Instead, use a branch, rope or similar object to help from a safe distance. You can also throw something that floats, like a life jacket or cushion, to assist them until help arrives.

LFES reminds residents that no ice is ever completely safe, especially in our region where conditions can change rapidly due to fluctuating weather and Chinook winds. 

We can reduce the risk of preventable emergencies by staying informed and following these guidelines. 

For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.