Local residents are reminded of the hazardous ice conditions on rivers, lakes and drainage ditches throughout Manitoba as the spring thaw continues.

According to the Hydrologic Forecast Centre of Manitoba Infrastructure, while ice may appear normal, it may be very thin and no longer support people and heavy objects such as snowmobiles and vehicles.

Use of the rivers, lakes, floodways or drainage ditches for activities such as skiing, sledding and snowmobiling could be hazardous at this time and should be avoided. People living near waterways should be especially careful to prevent children and pets from wandering onto the ice.

If you see someone fall through the ice the Lifesaving Society of Manitoba recommends calling 911, and then evaluating what you can do to provide a safe rescue.

Trying to assist by throwing a line or rope from a safe distance is a good idea, though if you venture onto the ice it's recommended you stay on your stomach and distribute your weight as much as possible.

If you fall through the ice it's important to remain calm, then turn so your back is facing the direction you came from, place your hands on the ice and kick until your body is in a horizontal position before rolling away to a safe distance.

Manitoba Sustainable Development advises ice fishing shelters should already be off of the Red River. Shelters must be removed by March 31 in the rest of the southern division and by April 15 in the northwest, north central and northeast divisions, or when requested to do so by a conservation officer due to unsafe ice conditions.