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 the ice is
  • 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 will be two victims.
  • Use an 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 your 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 affected areas.
  • Frostbite appearance varies depending on whether re-warming has occurred or not


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 persons suspected of being moderately to severely hypothermic.