Ice

[FishingMOM]

We all know this. But here is a reminder.
Felt it was not good to put this in the other thread.
This was sent as a reminder to all of us at Life Saving Society of Alberta.



Spring Ice is Not Safe

Ice surfaces are not safe as spring makes an early arrival. Warmer temperatures and melting water create unstable ice surfaces. Please stay off the ice! No ice is without risk.

Many factors affect ice thickness including the type of water, location, and time of year. Other environmental factors also affect ice thickness such as the size and depth of the body of water; moving water (i.e. currents, drainage, runoff); snow cover; chemicals including salt; fluctuations in water levels; logs, rocks and docks absorbing heat from the sun; changing air temperature and shock waves from vehicles travelling on the ice.

There are many layers of protection to help protect against drowning and water-related injury at any time of year. Be Ice and Water Smart®.

Spring Ice is Rotten Ice.
Stop using the ice once spring thaws begin. Even if ice measures at the right thickness (minimum 10 cm or 4 inches for walking or skating alone), candling during melting weakens it vertically. The ice can no longer be trusted.

Use Designated Ice Surfaces.
Many communities have designated ponds for activities such as skating that are maintained by knowledgeable personnel. Designated ice should be regularly tested to ensure that it is thick enough and strong enough for recreational use.

Never Go Onto Ice Alone.
A buddy may be able to rescue you, or go for help if you get into difficulty. Before you leave shore, tell someone where you are going and expected time of return.

Always Supervise Children.
Children should always be under adult supervision when in, on and around water and ice. Children that aren't within arm's reach have ventured too far. Insist that they wear a lifejacket/PFD or thermal protection buoyant suit.

Ice Rescue.
Rescuing another person from the ice can be dangerous. The safest way to perform a rescue is from the shore. If you see someone in trouble, call 911.

[molly]

Thanks for posting that. Too many people do not have a healthy respect for how dangerous ice can be.

[rugatika]

Good reminder. AND, sometimes just telling kids to stay off ice is not good enough. They are kids.


I remember mom always warning us to stay off the ice on the creek in the spring. Which we promptly ignored and somehow managed to luckily stay alive despite our stupidity (aka: youthful exuberance)