Outdoor Ice Still Not Safe On Vancouver Parks

January 10, 2005 (No. 1) - Outdoor ice skating on ponds and lakes located in Vancouver parks are not safe for skating. The Park Board's Supervisor of Beaches & Outdoor Pools Glenn Schultz says that 5-6 inches of solid ice is required before these bodies of water will be declared safe for outdoor ice skating.

Warning signs have been posted at popular sites, along with staff at selected areas, to inform residents of the potential danger to people and their dogs. Popular locations include Queen Elizabeth Park, Trout Lake at John Hendry Park, Jericho Beach Park, Vanier Park and Lost Lagoon and Beaver Lake in Stanley Park.

The public is reminded that snow cover on lakes and ponds can give a false sense of safety putting people at risk. Dog owners are cautioned to keep their canine charges on leash around these areas to avoid them venturing onto thin ice.

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Contact: Glenn Schultz, Supervisor of Beaches & Outdoor Pools, at 604-665-3418 for further information.

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 200 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.