What every parent must consider when skating outdoors with kids. Ice skating is a wonderful winter activity for families. It’s fun, great exercise and if you’re lucky enough to skate on a pond, river or lake, it’s a perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors. However skating on ponds, river and lakes requires extra caution such as wearing a helmet and checking the ice, says Pamela Fuselli, Executive Director of SafeKids Canada. “Around ice safety, parents need to be very vigilant around the thickness and the secureness of the ice. It’s recommended that you don’t go on ice that’s less than eight inches thick, and to be aware that when we have quick thaws in the middle of the season that it significantly weakens the ice. So be very, very careful when going out onto the ice to skate or walk.” Adapted from The Parent Report Radio Show. Any advice or information contained herein should never be a substitute for professional and/or medical advice, diagnosis and treatment. For more information please review Terms of Service.