It's important to stay safe and prepared this winter when enjoying any time outdoors.

"The Lifesaving Society of Canada has 62% of all snowmobile accidents involve breaking through the ice," says Media Relations Constable Sean O'Keefe. "We want to ensure anyone going on the ice whether it's by snowmobile, or kids going skating, we want to make sure people are checking the depth of the ice first before going out onto any waterway here in our area."

He says it's also important to be prepared when driving to your destination this winter.

"You have to take into consideration that an accident can happen at any time. You could lose control of the vehicle on slippery roads, or poor weather comes in and you could be stranded on the side of the road, so keeping warm clothes, a blanket, and food and water in the vehicle is a good idea."

He adds taking the necessary steps before heading onto any waterway could be the difference between life and death.