Ice thickness testing begins on HRM lakes

Halifax Regional Municipality's ice thickness testing program has started for the season.

The municipality aims to test more than 70 lakes once a week during the winter months, however the program can't begin until ice has formed and it is safe for staff.

Results get posted to halifax.ca.

So far, none of the lakes tested meet safety standards.

The Canadian Red Cross recommends a minimum ice thickness of 15 cm for walking or skating alone, at least 20 cm for group skating or games and at least 25 cm for snowmobiling.

“Extreme caution is advised in areas where streams flow into and out of lakes,” said the municipality in a news release.

“It is also important to note that ice conditions may vary over the entire surface of lakes and are subject to change with weather conditions.”