MANITOUWADGE—The Manitouwadge Volunteer Fire Department is offering some sound safety advice for all skaters.
Fire officials posted a few important tips for all skaters to be aware of in order to enjoy safe, fun skating.
Some of these tips include the fact that skates should give good ankle support and fit snugly. For children whose feet are growing, softer boots are better than hard and stiff ones. Skate blades should not be dull or rusted.
All skaters should wear safety-approved hockey helmets. In Canada, a helmet should have "CSA" stamped on it, and helmets should be replaced every five years.
Children should never skate alone and should always skate in safe areas, away from traffic and free of obstacles.
Make sure the ice is thick enough for skating (at least 15 centimetres (six inches) for individuals and 20 centimetres (eight inches) for groups). Beware of quick thaws which can weaken the ice surface. Look for uneven or cracked outdoor ice surfaces as they can lead to trips and falls.
