By Carl Shier
The Royal Life Saving Society
It’s hard to believe that people still need a reminder about the dangers of thin ice and cold water. Each year there are people who ignore these risks. Some pay the ultimate price in their loss of life. It has become a dangerous time of year for avid outdoors enthusiast. We recognize that people will venture out on to lakes, rivers and bodies of water for a variety of activities during the winter and early spring months. I can be counted in that crowd of people who enjoy this time of year.
Snowmobiling, ice fishing, cross country skiing and hiking are just a few activities that take people out onto frozen waterways. Then as soon as the fishing season opens, boats get launched for some well-deserved time on the water. But here are a few things I have learned from years of reviewing our drowning and injury data. It matters not if your method of travel is atop a frozen lake or skimming over it in your boat; it is a critical time to think about your personal safety. Any accidental entry into that water at this time of year will induce a “cold water shock” reflex, which results in an uncontrollable gasping for breath and a rapid rise in heart rate. And if you don’t get out of the water quickly and regain warmth properly it can be fatal. It shouldn’t be taken lightly. Cold water kills. We strongly recommend the following ice safety and cold water survival tips and offer them as a chance to increase the odds of your survival:
• Always check ice conditions with knowledgeable local authorities.
• Whenever possible, do not go on the ice alone. When on foot, travel in pairs and keep a safe distance apart.
• Avoid unfamiliar paths and trails, especially at night.
• When possible, wear a buoyant thermal suit or lifejacket (PFD) over your clothing. The inflatable PFD’s work well over clothing too.
• Carry an ice pole, a throw line rope or ice picks when heading out on ice.
• Never allow children to play near ice unsupervised.
Understand how ice conditions can change daily, especially in springtime. Many varying factors can turn what was safe yesterday into dangerous today! Ice thickness doesn’t guarantee safety. Wear a lifejacket anytime you’re in a boat. An accidental fall in cold water has a dramatically different effect on you when compared to mid-summer.
Always think about being Water Smart® when in, on or around water. For further information contact the Lifesaving Society or visit our website at www.lifesaving.mb.ca or for smart boating tips; www.smartboater.ca.
