Dangers of Ice

FACTS ABOUT THE DANGERS OF ICE

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS 100 PERCENT SAFE ICE.



Ice safety varies with several factors about the ice:
  • How thick is the ice
  • How much internal melting has taken place in the thick ice
  • The thickness of the reformed surface.
  • The temperature, wind and sun strength
  • The type of ice (Grain Structure) involved

WHAT IF A COMPANION FALLS THROUGH THE ICE?

  • Keep calm and think out a solution
  • DO NOT run up to the hole. You'll probably break through and then there are two victims.
  • Use a item to throw or extend to the victim
  • If you cannot rescue call 9-1-1
  • Get medical attention after cold-water immersion

WHAT IF YOU FALL THROUGH THE ICE

  • Try not to Panic, remain calm and turn towards the direction you came from
  • Place your hands and arms on unbroken surface of the ice
  • Work forward by kicking our feet, if the ice breaks maintain a position and try again
  • Once out of the water do not stand up, roll away from the hole

SYMPTOMS OF FROSTBITE:


  • Initial uncomfortable sensations of coldness
  • Tingling, stinging or aching feeling of exposed areas, followed by numbness
  • Ears, fingers, toes, cheeks and noses are primarily effected areas.
  • Frostbite appearance varies depending on whether re-warming has occurred

Caution: If you suspect frostbite you should seek medical attention immediately

SYMPTOMS OF HYPOTHERMIA


  • First symptom is shivering and inability to do complex motor functions
  • Lethargy and mild confusion occur as the core body temperature is reduced to around 95 degrees F (35 degrees C)
  • As body temperature continues to fall the individual falls into a state of dazed consciousness, failing to complete even simple motor functions.
  • Speech becomes slurred and behavior becomes irrational

CAUTION: Handle hypothermic people very carefully because of the increased irritability of the heart. Seek medical assistance for person's suspected of being moderately or severally hypothermic.