Monday's city council meeting began with a reflection on a tragic weekend occurrence. 

After visiting the shoreline by the Raven subdivision earlier in the day, Mayor Alan Harrison opened the Feb. 10 council meeting with a word on an incident that occurred two days prior, on Shuswap Lake between Raven and Sandy Point. 

"There was a tragedy in our community this weekend, a very difficult one," said Harrison. "A young man walking across the lake fell through the ice. The dive team from Vancouver is presently on the recovery mission out on the lake. We are thinking of his family, we're thinking of his friends, and the people surrounding him 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ“ the RCMP, search and rescue and fire department personnel who were on hand for this very difficult situation.

It's unconscionable to me losing a son in that way. So, we will support in the best way that he can the families that are involved 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ“ I know it touches the whole community."

Harrison also thanked Salmon Arm RCMP Staff Sgt. Simon Scott for his communication with the city and human resources personnel. 

In a media release issued late Saturday afternoon, Scott advised the public to stay off local lakes "as the conditions are currently unsafe despite the cold temperatures."

"We urge increased precautions if anyone is interacting near icy bodies of water," said Scott. 

In an email to the Observer, Salmon Arm Fire Department deputy fire chief Carmen Guidos echoed that request. 

"The Salmon Arm Fire Department would like to echo the Salmon Arm RCMP  in reminding the public that while the ice on local lakes may appear to be solid, there are many places where the ice will not support human weight," said Guidos. "Please stay off the ice on local lakes and ponds."

Harrison noted an update will be provided as further information becomes available, "and hopefully, the recovery mission will be successful in providing the family with just any kind of hope."