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December 9, 2004 Click here to download an Audio clip to accompany this story. (282 Kb wav file) Click here to download an Audio clip to accompany this story. (263 Kb wav file)
Colder temperatures, for a longer period of time, are needed if the ice is to get thicker. At least a week or more of average daily temperatures lower than 20 degrees are needed to make ice that is strong enough to be safe. Safe ice is clear to bluish in color and needs to be:
Thin, white or cloudy ice is not safe. Ice that is less than 4 inches thick and is white or cloudy has many tiny air bubbles making it much weaker. Clear to bluish ice has very little air in it, making it much stronger. Falling through the ice is life threatening. It is usually impossible to know exactly how deep the water is underneath the ice. “The water is going to be extremely cold and the sudden shock will quickly affect anyone who falls in,” Maher says. “The first reaction is to open the mouth and inhale deeply, unfortunately drawing lots of ice cold water into the lungs.” Hypothermia will rapidly develop if the victim is not quickly removed from the cold water. Body heat will dissipate as the clothing fills with icy water. “When the core temperature of the body has dropped to the point where body heat cannot be maintained, death is almost certain,” Maher says. “If the body's heat loss cannot be reversed, hypothermia is definitely fatal. Supplemental heat must be supplied until the heat loss is reversed and normal body temperature is restored.” Do not go on the ice on a river, pond or lake early in the season. After falling through the ice, it is very unlikely that the victim will find the hole to come back up through. The ablity to break through the ice overhead is nearly impossible. “For the victim and would-be rescuers, this is a very panic-ridden situation,” Maher says. Those attempting a rescue should try to extend their reach by throwing a rope to the victim or holding a long pole for the victim to grab, if possible. “Remember, if the victim went through the ice, there is a good chance the ice will not support you, either,” Maher says. If you must go out on early or thin ice, follow these procedures:
Pond or lake ice usually forms earlier than river or stream ice. The current prevents the ice from becoming thick enough to be safe, so extra care is essential when going out on river or stream ice. Pond or lake ice can be dangerous, too, because of underwater springs that keep thick ice from forming. Moving water does not freeze. “And remember to never go out on thin ice without a capable and responsible person watching the situation,” Maher says. “You may need their help.” ### Source: George
Maher, 231-8288, gmaher@ndsuext.edu |
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North Dakota State University |
