Bourbonnais, IL – Residents hoping to enjoy winter ice skating are being urged to stay off park ponds after the Bourbonnais Township Park District issued a safety warning today prohibiting skating on all district-owned ponds.
According to the Bourbonnais Township Park District, ice skating is not permitted on any park ponds due to rapidly changing and unpredictable ice conditions that pose a serious safety risk.
Officials say ice thickness can vary widely across the same body of water and can weaken quickly due to temperature changes, snow cover, and water movement beneath the surface. Even when ponds appear frozen solid, hidden thin spots can lead to sudden break-throughs.
“Your safety is our top priority,” the park district said in a public notice, urging residents to enjoy winter scenery from the shoreline rather than venturing onto the ice.
The warning applies to all park ponds throughout Bourbonnais, located in Kankakee County, just south of the Kankakee metro area. Park officials emphasized that no amount of visible ice should be considered safe for skating, hockey, or walking.
A safety graphic shared alongside the announcement highlights the danger of falling through ice, a scenario that can quickly become life-threatening due to cold shock and limited mobility in freezing water.
Park officials also reminded families to speak with children and teens about the risks, noting that frozen ponds can be especially tempting during prolonged cold spells.
Residents are encouraged to seek out designated indoor or approved outdoor skating facilities elsewhere in the region and to report unsafe activity on park property when observed.
As winter weather continues this week, officials say additional safety reminders may be issued if conditions change.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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