City of Saskatoon warns public to stay off the ice as weather warms

Despite a snowstorm that swept through the city this week, the weather is still gradually warming up, and that means the ice on Saskatoon’s recreational ponds isn’t safe.

The city said eight inches is the minimum ice thickness for safe use. Warm temperatures in recent weeks have thinned the ice to below that threshold.

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“Ice thickness is no longer suitable for winter recreational use,” the city said in a statement.

“Fire crews will be updating the posted signage this week to read ‘No Skating’ at each recreational storm pond.”

The South Saskatchewan River has also started to thaw. Due to the unpredictability of the river, however, the city has said it is “never safe for winter recreational use” and residents were urged never to venture out on the river ice.

“Community members are advised to always exercise an elevated level of caution when around any large body of water,” the city advised.

“Keep a close watch on children and pets when visiting trails, parks, or off-leash areas that may run adjacent to the South Saskatchewan River or a storm water retention pond.”