Language

Google Translate Disclaimer

A number of pages on the Government of Saskatchewan's website have been professionally translated in French. These translations are identified by a yellow box in the right or left rail that resembles the link below. The home page for French-language content on this site can be found at:

Renseignements en Français

Where an official translation is not available, Google™ Translate can be used. Google™ Translate is a free online language translation service that can translate text and web pages into different languages. Translations are made available to increase access to Government of Saskatchewan content for populations whose first language is not English.

Software-based translations do not approach the fluency of a native speaker or possess the skill of a professional translator. The translation should not be considered exact, and may include incorrect or offensive language. The Government of Saskatchewan does not warrant the accuracy, reliability or timeliness of any information translated by this system. Some files or items cannot be translated, including graphs, photos and other file formats such as portable document formats (PDFs).

Any person or entities that rely on information obtained from the system does so at his or her own risk. Government of Saskatchewan is not responsible for any damage or issues that may possibly result from using translated website content. If you have any questions about Google™ Translate, please visit: Google™ Translate FAQs.

Stay Safe When Heading Out onto the Ice

Released on December 3, 2015

With the recent mild temperatures in Saskatchewan, the Ministry of Environment is reminding people to make sure there is sufficient ice for your safety if you plan on going onto the ice for ice fishing or other activities.

Ice thickness depends on the water body and the surrounding conditions.  Ice does not freeze at a uniform thickness and ice strength can vary considerably from one area to another.

It is important to test the ice thickness before you travel on it.  There should be at least 10 cm (4") of ice to walk on, 20 cm (8") to drive a snowmobile or ATV on, 30 cm (12") to drive a car or light truck on, and more than 30 cm (12") to drive a heavy truck on.


The ice thickness is a guideline; it is up to individuals to make a decision about whether to venture onto the ice.  Any activity on ice comes with a risk.

Ice thickness also cannot be the sole measure of whether it is safe to go on.  Clear, hard ice is the only ice that is recommended to travel on.

Avoid ice that is:
  • Slushy in appearance.
  • Ice that has thawed then froze again.
  • Ice near moving water.
  • Layered ice caused by sudden temperature changes.
Also, stay away from structures on ice such as pressure ridges.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Jamie Gibson
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3900
Email: jamie.gibson@gov.sk.ca

We need your feedback to improve saskatchewan.ca. Help us improve