Outdoor Ice Not Safe On Vancouver Parks

January 23, 2008 (No. 3) - Ice on ponds and lakes located in Vancouver parks is not safe for skating. The Park Board's Supervisor of Beaches & Outdoor Pools Glenn Schultz says that the ice remains too thin for skating or to support the weight of people or their pets.

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, Trout Lake at John Hendry Park, Lost Lagoon and Beaver Lake in Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, Jericho Beach Park, Vanier Park and Sutcliffe Park near the entrance to Granville Island.

The public is reminded that a thin layer of ice 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 ice thereby creating a very dangerous situation.

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Contact: Terri Clark, Communication Coordinator, 604-257-8438.
www.vancouverparks.ca

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 220 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.