ice lake(Photo by  Ned Horton from http://www.freeimages.com)

Despite appearances that winter is continuing with all the recent snow the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is out with an advisory about ice conditions.

The Ministry says before heading out check the ice conditions and keep in mind ice thickness varies. Other tips watch for the colour of the ice look for clear blue ice.

The Ministry says white or opaque ice is a lot weaker and if the ice has a honeycombed look avoid it.

And if you’re going somewhere the ministry says let others know where and when you’ll return.

Also have a set of ice picks with you and wear a flotation suit.

If you walk on blue ice it must be 4 inches thick but double it if the ice is white or opaque.