Ice fishing season begins across Newfoundland and Labrador on Saturday, and the President of Avalon T’railways is urging caution when heading out on the ice – especially given the mild weather being seen, particularly in eastern parts of the province so far this winter.
Rick Noseworthy says it is important for anyone heading out on the ice to be prepared, no matter the reason.
He says to always head out on the ice with a buddy, and to bring equipment that can be used in case of an emergency such as dry clothes, ice picks, rope, a whistle and a floatation device.
He stresses the importance of having that equipment on your body, noting that it will be no good if it is attached to an ATV that also goes through the ice.
Noseworthy says people should always check the ice once every 15 to 20 feet, and advises against just eyeballing it.
He says people might have been able to do that 20 years ago, but the climate has changed. He notes a thin layer of ice covered over with some snow can be deceiving.