Ice Safety
Each winter, many residents are injured from exposure in cold water incidents. Skaters and ice fishermen fall through the ice; boaters and canoeists overturn their crafts.
How thick is "safe" ice?
Ice on moving water in rivers, streams and brooks is never safe! The thickness of ice on ponds and lakes depends upon water currents or springs, depth and natural objects stuck as tree stumps or rocks. Daily changes in temperature cause the ice to expand and contract, which affects its strength. Because of these factors, no one can declare the ice to be absolutley "safe"!
The only "safe" ice is in an arena!
What do I do if someone falls through the ice?
Act Quickly and call 911 for help immediatley! Make sure properly trained and equipped rescue personnel are alerted to respond.
Do Not go out on ice! Many times would be rescuers become victims themselves.
Reach, Throw, or Row. Extend a branch, pole or ladder to the victim. Throw them a bouyant object such as a life ring or float tied to a rope. If a boat is nearby row out to the victim or push it toward them.
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