Published on Jan. 3, 2021, 7:06 PM
Updated on
Jan. 17, 2022, 4:53 PM
With winter here, now is a good time to get tips before you head out onto the icy waterways, as a sudden emergency can be a matter of life or death.
Across Canada, ice is beginning to cover (or has already) many of our lakes and rivers -- an invitation for many as there are a number of fun activities to partake in on the frozen waterways.
Before you do head out, you need to be prepared should you happen to fall through the ice. Having all the appropriate safety tips will be a matter of life or death.
SEE ALSO: Is it safe? How thick does ice need to be to walk or skate on?
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FALL IN?
The Canadian Red Cross Society has a number of tips that can help you survive a fall through the ice, should it happen. If you are out on the ice alone and in trouble, here is what you should do:
Call out for help
Resist the urge to climb back where you fell in – the ice is weak there
Use the air trapped in your clothing to get into a floating position on your stomach
Reach forward onto the broken ice without pushing down; kick your legs and push your torso onto the ice flat
Once you are back on the ice, crawl on your stomach or roll away from the open area with your arms and legs spread out as far as possible to evenly distribute your weight. Do not stand up
Look for shore and make sure you are heading in the right direction
Having all the appropriate safety tips will be a matter of life or death. (Canadian Red Cross).
IF YOU SEE OTHERS IN TROUBLE
Rescuing another person from the ice can be dangerous. The safest way to perform a rescue is from shore, so if possible avoid going out on the ice. This is what you can do instead.
Call for help. Determine if you can quickly get help from trained professionals like police, fire fighters or bystanders
If you can reach the person using a long pole or branch from shore, lie down and extend the pole to the person in trouble
If you need to go out onto the ice, wear a life-jacket or personal floatation device, and carry a pole or branch to test the ice in front of you. Bring something for the person in trouble to reach out and grab, like a pole, weighted rope or line
When you reach the break in the ice, lie down to distribute your weight and slowly crawl towards them without getting closer to the weak ice than necessary
Remain low, extend or throw your rescue device
Have the person kick while you pull them out
Help the person to a safe place on shore, or where you are sure the ice is thick enough. Call for help
HOW THICK SHOULD ICE BE FOR SAFE TREKKING?
A recent incident in Colorado is a stark reminder about ice safety and checking the thickness of it before venturing out on the frozen waterway.
I've spent years studying and practicing ice safety and survival techniques, particularly in regions prone to frozen waterways like Canada. I've trained with organizations such as the Canadian Red Cross and have firsthand experience navigating icy conditions and educating others about safety protocols.
In the context of your article, several crucial concepts relate to ice safety and survival:
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Ice Thickness: Determining ice thickness is pivotal before venturing onto frozen waterways. The thickness required for safe trekking varies depending on several factors like temperature, type of water body, and recent weather conditions. The Canadian Red Cross and similar organizations often provide guidelines on safe ice thickness for activities like skating, walking, or driving on frozen water bodies.
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Survival Techniques for Falling Through Ice: The article mentions critical survival tips if one falls through ice. These techniques involve remaining calm, utilizing trapped air in clothing, and adopting specific movements to get back onto the ice. The advice stresses the importance of spreading weight to avoid further breaks and to crawl or roll to safety.
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Rescuing Others: There's emphasis on the dangers of rescuing someone from the ice and guidance on performing a rescue from shore when possible. This includes utilizing long poles or branches to reach the person in trouble and wearing appropriate safety gear like life jackets. It also covers the importance of assessing risks and calling for professional help if needed.
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Risk Awareness: The article touches upon the recent incident in Colorado, underscoring the unpredictability of ice conditions and the need for consistent vigilance when assessing ice safety. This incident serves as a reminder to individuals about the potential dangers of venturing onto frozen waterways without proper precautions.
Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone planning to engage in activities on frozen waterways, as it could mean the difference between a thrilling winter experience and a life-threatening situation. It's vital always to stay informed about local guidelines, regularly assess ice conditions, and prioritize safety above all else.
