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Police warn snowmobilers of slush on area lakes

Warm weather causes slush, and in this case fresh snow covered the slush, making the lake appear safe to travel on
20220310 snowmobile slush on lake
Snow can cover slush on lakes this time of year, making it dangerous for snowmobiles.

OPP are warning that slush on area lakes are causing an extra hazard for snowmobilers at this time of year.

On March 10 rescued two overdue snowmobilers on Saunders Lake, 40 km north of White River.

"Familiar with the area, officers quickly located the riders, who had been stuck in deep slush for several hours," a post on the OPP Facebook page said.

"Officers assisted with removing their snowmobiles from the slush and getting them safely back to shore."

Police are reminding the public to be extra cautious when snowmobiling on waterways this time of year.

"While the ice is still very thick, it can be hazardous. Warm weather causes slush, and in this case fresh snow covered the slush, making the lake appear safe to travel on. The riders did not realize the danger until they stopped, and could not move. Luckily no injuries were sustained."

Slush forms when heavy snow or rain, weigh down a sheet of ice. Water seeps through pressure cracks and drilled fishing holes.

The water does not re-freeze in temperatures because it is protected by the insulating factors of heavy blankets of snow.

Here are some tips to remember, should you get stuck in slush.