It’s that time of year when rivers and lakes are starting to melt, says the City of Whitehorse, creating dangerous conditions if proper safety precautions are not taken.

“Fast-moving rivers such as the Yukon River melt at different rates and are even more unpredictable than lakes and ponds,” the city said April 7. “We encourage citizens to stay off melting ice on any bodies of water, since it may be unstable.”

If your work or recreation activities take you out onto the ice this spring, wear a personal flotation device and take safety equipment with you, the city advises.

“Do not go out onto the ice alone. Ice thickness should be at least 10 centimetres (four inches) to safely support one person, and more if vehicles are present.”

If you do find yourself in a dangerous situation involving ice, the city said, please remember:

• Call 911 if you, another person or your pet needs assistance;

• Stay calm and shout for help;

• Have a long branch, rope or pole to reach someone, but do not become a victim;

• Keep low and distribute your weight as much as possible;

• Try to climb out at the same spot where you fell in as you know the ice is solid in that area; and

• Be prepared to start a fire to mitigate the effects of hypothermia.

“Parents are encouraged to speak to their children about the dangers of going out onto the ice,” the city said.

“Always supervise children playing on or near ice and keep pets on a leash.”