In the aftermath of a tragic incident involving the drowning of a man and a child in Saint-Zénon, the Quebec Lifesaving Society (QLS) is emphasizing essential safety guidelines for individuals participating in ice-related activities.
The recent loss of the two individuals cast a shadow over Christmas Day for their families, as confirmed by the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) on a somber Thursday. The man and child were on a tractor clearing snow on ice near Lake Ernest when a devastating accident occurred.
Following the distressing incident, a coroner’s inquiry was promptly initiated to investigate the circumstances and possibly offer preventive measures to avert future tragedies.
QLS, which aims to raise awareness and prevent drownings, sadly reports an average of six to eight winter drownings annually. In 2025, Quebec has already witnessed the loss of six lives in icy waters, including the recent incidents in Saint-Zénon, as well as previous deaths and a snowmobiler’s fatality.
Raynald Hawkins, QLS’s executive director, emphasizes the importance of being well-informed before engaging in ice activities. He underscores that assessing the color and thickness of the ice is crucial for safety. Solid black ice, revealing the lake bottom, is generally safe for walking, formed after seven to 10 continuous days below minus-10 Celsius.
Hawkins advises that ice thickness varies based on activities and weight distribution. For instance, for snowmobiling, ice should be 12 to 15 centimeters thick, while for a fishing hut, it should measure between 30 and 38 centimeters.
Gray ice, a blend of frozen and liquid water, is discouraged for traversing due to its brittle nature. Whitish ice, if twice as thick as the recommended translucent ice thickness, is deemed safe for walking.
In emergencies, Hawkins stresses the importance of contacting 911 and highlights the effectiveness of trained firefighters in ice rescues. He offers tips on aiding someone in cold water, suggesting spreading weight to prevent ice breakage and following the “1-10-1” rule for self-rescue.
Hawkins outlines the steps to survive icy water submersion, including remaining calm, conserving energy, and returning to solid ice cautiously to avoid further accidents.
As winter approaches, Hawkins urges individuals to enjoy frozen lakes cautiously, staying near the shore where ice formation is more reliable.
Keyphrase: Ice Safety Tips
