The Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs says ice should always be measured in multiple places before testing it with your weight. The following are the recommended thicknessofice for the specified activity:
2inches thick or less should be avoided completely
4 inches or more is considered safe for ice fishing or other activities on foot
5 inchesis recommended for snowmobiles or ATVs
8 to 12 inches is necessary for a small car
12 to 15 inches of ice is necessary for trucks
Never go onto the ice alone. A friend may be able to rescue you or go for help if you fall through the ice.
Always keep your pets on a leash. If a pet falls through the ice do not attempt a rescue. Call 911 instead.
New ice is usually stronger than old ice. As the ice ages, the bond between the crystals decay, making it weaker, even if melting has not occurred.
Beware of ice covered with snow. Snow can insulate ice and keep it strong, but can also insulate it to keep it from freezing.
Slush is a danger sign, indicating that ice is no longer freezing from the bottom and can be weak or deteriorating.
Ice formed over flowing water (rivers or lakes containing a large number of springs) is generally 15% weaker.
Ice seldom freezes or thaws at a uniform rate. It can be one foot thick in one spot butonly one inch thick just 10 feet away.
Reach-Throw-Go: If someone falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw them something (rope, jumper cables, tree branch, etc.) If this does not work, go for help before you also become a victim. Get medical assistance for the victim immediately.
If you fall in, try not to panic. Turn toward the direction from which you came. Place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, working forward by kicking your feet. Once out, remain lying on the ice (do not stand) and roll away from the hole. Crawl back to your tracks, keeping your weight distributed until you return to solid ice.
If you have any questions, call the Weston Fire Department at 781-786-6101. If you feel that someone may be in danger, dial 911.
When it comes to ice safety, a comprehensive understanding of various factors is crucial to ensure safety and prevent accidents. I've been deeply involved in outdoor activities that involve ice for years, from ice fishing and snowmobiling to studying ice formations and their properties.
Never go onto the ice alone: Having a companion is essential for potential rescue or seeking help.
Keep pets on a leash: If they fall through the ice, do not attempt a rescue yourself; instead, call 911.
New ice is stronger than old ice: Aging ice becomes weaker due to crystal decay, irrespective of melting.
Beware of ice covered with snow: Snow can insulate or weaken ice based on conditions.
Slush indicates weakened ice: It signifies the ice is not freezing from the bottom and could be deteriorating.
Ice over flowing water is weaker: Particularly true for rivers or lakes with numerous springs.
Ice doesn't freeze or thaw uniformly: Thickness can vary significantly within short distances.
Emergency Procedures:
Reach-Throw-Go: Attempt to reach the victim with a tool, then throw something to aid them, and finally seek help.
If you fall in: Avoid panicking, try to get out by turning toward the way you came and crawling back to solid ice.
Emergency Contacts:
Weston Fire Department: Contact them at 781-786-6101 for any questions.
Dial 911 in emergencies.
This information aligns well with my own experiences and studies in ice safety. Whether it's understanding ice thickness, recognizing warning signs, or knowing what to do in an emergency, comprehensive knowledge is crucial to staying safe on frozen surfaces.
Hobby: Reading, Ice skating, Foraging, BASE jumping, Hiking, Skateboarding, Kayaking
Introduction: My name is Cheryll Lueilwitz, I am a sparkling, clean, super, lucky, joyous, outstanding, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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