On the afternoon December 3rd, social media was blowing up reporting that there had been a ‘plane crash’ on the lake – that in fact was not the case. Chestermere Emergency Services received a call saying a plane had tipped over partially on Chestermere Lake near John Peake Park. The 67 year old pilot had landed safely on the lake and was taxiing near shore when, due to our constant fluctuations in weather and temperatures, encountered some soft ice. Thankfully, the pilot escaped without injury.
Glenn Henry S/Sgt., Detachment Commander of the Chestermere RCMP Detachment, confirmed that although planes are allowed to take off and land from the lake, pilots are responsible for their safety so it would be in their best interest to check all factors including weather conditions and ground conditions. “From my past understanding many pilots will do a low fly by to ensure the landing area is clear of others. In this case the pilot may not have been aware of the soft ice in that particular location”, explained Staff Sgt. Henry.
In less than twenty four hours after the plane incident, it was reported that a black Sunfire had ventured out onto the thinly frozen waters only to end up buried almost up to the hood in ice and snow. It is reported that the occupant(s) of this vehicle also escaped without injury.
The Town of Chestermere website clearly states that “Lake and ice rescue is not available on Chestermere Lake. You use the lake in any season at your own risk. Please note that it is never recommended that you venture onto lake ice of any thickness.”
Chestermere Fire Service commented, “With the mild temperatures we will be experiencing over the next week, Chestermere Fire Services is warning all residents to stay off the lake as well as the small ponds located throughout our community. As we are all aware, temperatures have been volatile this fall and we have not yet seen consecutive weeks of -20. In fact, winter does not officially start until December 21. Given that we are expecting temperatures to rise this week above 0, which will result in increased melting, runoff and deterioration in the ice, we strongly recommend that all residents stay off the lake.
The recommended thickness of ice should be a minimum of 15cm thick for walking alone; 20cm for more than one person; 25cm for a snowmobile with no cracks. NO ICE IS CONSIDERED SAFE! Ice thickness is variable due to inconsistent weather patterns and the several storm weather runoffs that filter into the lake. These two contributing factors make it extremely difficult to trust ice depth, so the safest approach is to stay off the ice until we receive consistent cold weather. Chestermere Fire Services is also cautioning those who walk their dog(s) on any body of water to keep a very close eye on them. Do not let your dog wander too far away or go near open water as dogs love to chase waterfowl that use the open water. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Remember, no ice is considered safe ice! Please stay off and stay safe.”
