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.