Ice Safety in Quebec: Assess Risk and Respond to a Fall-Through
Understand why natural ice is never guaranteed, prepare an outing and assist without creating a second victim.
Choose a monitored site
Prefer an officially open and maintained rink or trail. Tracks, a snowmobile or other people do not prove safety.
Before leaving
Check weather and the operator, go with someone, share the plan and carry a protected phone, dry clothes, whistle and suitable equipment.
Danger signs
Stay away from open water, cracks, grey ice, snow cover, culverts, outlets and bridge piers. Sound alone cannot diagnose ice.
If you fall through
Control breathing, face the direction you came from, put forearms on the ice and kick to lift yourself. Roll or crawl away before standing.
Help without approaching
Call 911. Reach or throw a rope, pole or flotation object from safety. Do not run to the edge or enter the water.
After rescue
Protect from wind, gently remove wet clothing if dry clothes are ready and warm gradually. Obtain medical assessment.
Vehicles
Weight, speed and vibration increase risk. Use only authorized routes and recommended escape gear.
Plan for the activity
Walking, fishing, skating, skiing and snowmobiling do not place the same weight or speed on the ice. Ask the site manager which zones are open and where emergency access points are. Wear removable layers, avoid wet cotton and keep keys and a phone in a waterproof pouch attached to you rather than in a sled.
In a group
Space people according to local guidance and keep the whole group away from the same weak area. Assign who will call emergency services, guide responders and keep others back. After immersion, do not let the person drive: cooling, confusion and fatigue can worsen even after rescue.