Ice melting on recreational ponds and South Saskatchewan River

As the weather continues to warm up, the Saskatoon Fire Department would like to advise the public to be mindful of ice conditions during the freeze-thaw cycle. 

Recent ice testing by the Saskatoon Fire Department has determined the ice thickness is no longer suitable for winter recreational use. The ice must reach a minimum thickness of at least eight inches to be considered safe. Fire crews have updated the posted signage to read “No Skating” at each recreational storm pond.

Community members who use the ponds for recreational purposes assume all risk and maintenance responsibilities for the ice including removing personal belongings, as well as user safety. 

Additionally, ice on the South Saskatchewan River has also started to melt. The ice that covers this body of water is unpredictable and is therefore never safe for winter recreational use. Community members are asked to never venture out onto the ice that covers sections of the South Saskatchewan River. 

Community members are advised to always exercise an elevated level of caution when around any large body of water. 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. 

For more information regarding the Recreational Uses of Storm Water Retention Ponds policy, visit www.saskatoon.ca/ponds.