Think Twice About The Ice!

With colder weather finally upon us, many outdoor enthusiasts are hitting the slopes, trails, lakes and rivers to enjoy winter activities like snowmobiling and skating.  But with the unseasonably warm weather in some areas of the country, thin ice is a serious threat.  

Source: Canadian Red Cross

Here are some tips that will keep you safe.

Ice Safety: Ensure adequate ice thickness first: 15 cm for walking or skating; 20 cm for skating parties or hockey; and 25 cm are recommended for snowmobiling.

Ice is not safe when it forms over any moving body of water – including rivers, streams and lakes with currents.  Some municipal departments including recreation, police and fire departments, measure ice thickness on local lakes.  Find out if this service is available in your community.

Ice Rescue:Use a hockey stick, pole, rope, belt or scarf to reach out to a person who has fallen through ice.  Try to avoid venturing on the ice yourself, but if you must, roll or crawl out, lay flat and stay a safe distance from the edge of the ice.

Hypothermia: This is a silent killer. If hypothermia occurs, keep the victim warm, dry and still. Take the patient to the hospital immediately. Never give alcohol to someone who is suffering from hypothermia.

Be Prepared: Prepare before going outdoors and know what to do if the weather changes quickly.  Dress in layers. Remember that 60 percent of body heat is lost through the head, so wear a hat. Check the weather forecast and always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Below is a video from Discovery Channel.

 


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