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January 28, 2002 |
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Ice Safety
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We were saddened by the recent news of two men in the Town of Gardiner who lost their lives trying to rescue a dog that fell through thin ice on Tilson Lake. Our local State Forest Ranger Patricia Rudge has reminded us that in most instances such tragic losses can be avoided, and she has emphasized the need for ice-fisherman, skaters, skiers, sledders, trappers and others venturing out on the ice, whether child or adult, to think ahead and take the necessary precautions. There are no lifeguards sitting by watching people who are out on icy ponds, but the need for such caution and supervision is just as great or greater when going out on ice in the winter, than when swimming in summer.
Guidelines for ice safety released by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation offer some great tips on precautions that should be taken when going out on ice, and how to be more prepared in case of an accident. First of all, never let children out on ice without an adult supervising. Adults should use the buddy system, avoiding going out alone. Check ice thickness thoroughly before getting out too far. An 'ice strength table' indicates that there should be a minimum of three inches of ice before walking out, and five or six before snowmobiling. Double-check ice conditions around inlets, outlets, springs, partially submerged logs, and docks, or avoid these areas altogether. If you see others, be sure to warn them of potentially dangerous or weak areas. Truly cautious people will also strategically place rescue equipment where it can be used quickly. Such equipment include a flat-bottomed boat, extension ladder, weighted throw-rope, life jackets, sled, and long poles.
If you see someone fall through ice, and are in a safe position yourself, remain calm but act quickly. Give three blasts on a whistle to alert others, then reach with a pole or throw a rope or life jacket to the victim from a safe distance. Make sure you're on firm ground and never jeopardize your own safety. Talk to the victim, coaching them to hang on, reach out, kick, crawl, etc. If you yourself are the one that falls through the ice, the key to self rescue is kicking your legs and reaching forward with your arms until you get a hold of firmer ice. Try to 'roll' onto the ice, and then lie flat while 'swimming' on the ice, sweeping your arms and pushing with the toes of your boots. When the ice is firmer, you can crawl, and then eventually begin walking again with long strides.
After you or another victim makes it to safety, waste no time in getting dry and warm as soon as possible. Change into dry clothing and find warm food and drink, but no alcohol (it actually causes you to lose body heat). If you are in a remote area and cannot change into dry clothing or start a fire, keep all of your clothing on and keep on moving - get aerobic. Winter outings should be safe and fun, so again, think ahead and be prepared.
- Chris and Aaron
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