Ice Measurement and Safety

Yellowknife Ice Safety

Ice testing on the Yellowknife Lakes is now complete. Please continue to use caution when on the ice as there are a variety of factors which cause ice to form more slowly in certain areas, such as moving water. 

Do not use the Yellowknife River as a travel corridor in the winter and stay away from the channel between the boat launch and Prosperous Lake.

 When snowmobiling, we advise taking the following precautions:

• Always travel with a buddy;
• Tell people where you are going and when you are expected back;
• Bring an extra set of warm clothing and consider purchasing a floatation snowmobile suit;
• Spread out the weight of snow machines and do not park them close together on the ice;    
• Ensure you have the following safety equipment with you:  ice picks, rope, cellphone packed in a waterproof container, first aid kit, flashlight, waterproof matches or lighter, tool kit, candles and survival blanket.
• As when using the road system, do not drive a snow machine while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. 

When walking on the ice “light up”.  Wear reflective clothing and/or a form of illumination to ensure snow machine operators can see you.  Be aware of your surroundings.

See below for tips on rescue if you or a buddy has fallen through the ice. 

Please call 9-1-1 / 873-2222 if you see that someone has fallen through the ice or is in distress.

ICE ASSESSMENT THICKNESS