Ice cutting

Ice cutting is when people go out onto frozen lakes or rivers and use special tools to cut blocks of ice out of the water. It is kind of like when you use a knife to cut a piece of cake, except these tools are much bigger and stronger!

Once the ice is cut into blocks, it can be stored in buildings called ice houses or ice barns, where it will stay frozen until it is needed. In the past, people would use this ice to keep their food and drinks cold before refrigerators were invented.

Ice cutting is really important for some communities in the winter because it allows them to have access to ice even when it is too cold for it to snow. It can also be a fun activity for people to do together, although it is important to always make sure the ice is thick enough to be safe before going out onto it.