Drivers cross ice bridges at own risk, Warman Fire Department

Some responses advised drivers to stay off the ice road because the ice thickness is always questionable. Others admitted to recently crossing the river and encouraging other drivers to do the same despite ‘road closed’ barricades.

Thompson said he wants to remind drivers who cross the ice road that if you fall through the ice, WFD may not be able to save you.

“We don’t have all the equipment required for rescue on moving water. Saskatoon city fire has river rescue; we don’t. We just have dry suits and ropes not (long) enough to go out to the middle of the river,” he said, adding Saskatoon’s river rescue team is about 20 minutes away from the area.

Thompson said locals have used the ice road for years, shaving about 45 minutes off the commute from Warman to Aberdeen, and despite warnings and barricades, he said people will continue to cross.

In January, a woman fell through the ice in her SUV but was rescued by WFD. Since then, the condition of the ice road has been in question.

But Thompson said that’s not stopping people from testing the ice for themselves.

“There’s another ice road by the Hague Ferry; they’re doing the same thing there. Anywhere where there’s a ferry there’s an ice road, and that’s the way it’s been for years and it will continue like that for years and years,” Thompson said.

Al Hattie Insurance owner Brent Hattie said if drivers fall through the ice, Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) plan covers the damages.

“In normal circumstances, any ice crossing of any type would be considered accidental damage; generally speaking coverage is automatic for crossing ice roads,” Hattie said.

Though he couldn’t confirm if passing through a ‘road closed’ sign would void a driver’s insurance – he hopes drivers use caution and understand the risks before crossing such roads.

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by François Biber

Drivers cross ice bridges at own risk, Warman Fire Department

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